Three Virginia deputies injured by shrapnel during warrant execution are ‘shaken up’ but OK

Three sheriff’s deputies were injured Wednesday(August 13) during a gunfire exchange while executing warrants in southern Virginia, but officials say all are “shaken up” and recovering.

The warrants involved charges of brandishing a firearm and trespassing, Pittsylvania County Sheriff Michael W. Taylor said. Officers were also serving a protective order at the time of the incident. Pittsylvania County is located along Virginia’s southern border with North Carolina, about 98 miles northwest of Raleigh.

The standoff lasted several hours but ended peacefully, with the suspected shooter taken into custody, Taylor told reporters.


“All three are well. Of course, they’re shaken up. And they’re going through the process now of trying to heal,” Taylor said. “They’re OK.”

Authorities noted that the deputies were injured by shrapnel, with none suffering a direct gunshot wound. The Virginia State Police are investigating the shooting. Sgt. Rick Garletts, a spokesperson for the agency, said agents were likely to remain on the scene overnight collecting evidence.

“We’re very happy that there were no further injuries tonight. This could have ended much worse than it did,” Garletts said. “I’m glad he gave himself up and came on out.”

Photos and video from the scene showed numerous police and emergency vehicles parked along the road.

US Rep. John McGuire, who represents Virginia’s 5th congressional district, posted on X that his thoughts and prayers were with the deputies and their families.

“We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time,” McGuire wrote.