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May 31, 2026 at 08:59 AM
Virginia Deputy Logan Utt, 31, Killed in Ambush During Welfare Check — Suspect Michael Puckett Still at Large
A Routine Call Turned Into a Murder Scene
Friday night, May 29, 2026. Two Carroll County Sheriff's Office deputies are sent to 13658 Fancy Gap Highway in Virginia. A family member called in a welfare check. The kind of call deputies handle every day.
They made contact with Michael Puckett. Then Puckett opened fire.
Deputy Logan Utt, 31, was hit and did not survive. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Carroll County Sheriff's Office. The second deputy took a round to his ballistic vest and is currently in stable condition, per Carroll County Sheriff Kevin A. Kemp.
The deputies returned fire. Puckett fled.
Who Was Logan Utt?
Utt joined the Carroll County Sheriff's Office in 2023 after serving in the United States military, according to the NY Post. He was 31 years old. He leaves behind a wife and children.
Sheriff Kemp said in a statement: "Becoming a deputy sheriff was a lifelong dream, and he worked every day to make Carroll County a safer place. Today, Carroll County has lost a hero, and a family has suffered an unimaginable loss."
The Manhunt
The US Marshals Service is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to Puckett's capture, according to Fox News and the NY Post. Virginia State Police is leading the investigation.
Authorities describe Puckett as armed and extremely dangerous. Law enforcement agencies urge the public not to approach him. Call 911 immediately if you see him.
Law enforcement agencies from across Virginia responded to the scene and joined the search. The Stafford County Sheriff's Office publicly offered condolences and support, per Shore News Network.
The Investigation
According to authorities, Puckett opened fire on deputies who responded to a welfare check requested by his own family member. The family called for help, and investigations suggest the man they called about was waiting.
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger issued a statement calling Utt's sacrifice "a testament to his bravery and dedication," according to the NY Post.
What Happens Next
Michael Puckett remains at large. The Virginia State Police investigation is active. The $10,000 reward stands.
Anyone with information on Puckett's location should call Virginia State Police or 911 immediately. Do NOT approach him.