An 'armed and dangerous' suspect wanted for killing a Virginia police officer remains on the loose after being spotted on a wildlife camera in North Carolina. Fugitive Michael Timothy Puckett, 55, is accused of fatally shooting Deputy Logan Utt on Friday after the officer was dispatched to conduct a welfare check at a home in Carroll County.
Two officers arrived at the home on Fancy Gap Highway at 9.26pm, where they made contact with Puckett. Police say Puckett allegedly opened fire on both officers, killing Utt, while the second officer—whose identity has not been released—was struck in his ballistic vest and is expected to recover.
The alleged cop killer then went on the run. He was spotted on a trail camera in Surry County early Sunday morning, Wytheville Police Department said. Footage released by the department shows the suspect wearing a baseball cap, moving through a secluded wooded area.
But the manhunt remains underway as the FBI and state police offer a combined reward of $60,000 for information leading to the 55-year-old's arrest. Puckett is described as 5'10", white, about 190 lbs, and bald, and faces aggravated murder charges.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, with officials urging anyone with outdoor surveillance footage to check for suspicious activity. Police added that residents should lock vehicles, doors, and sheds and avoid leaving items outside that could help Puckett escape capture.
Tributes have poured in for the slain deputy, who joined the Carroll County Sheriff's Office in 2023. 'It is with deep sadness that I confirm the loss of Carroll County Sheriff's Office Deputy Logan Utt, who was killed in the line of duty while serving our community,' Sheriff Kevin A Kemp said in a statement. 'Deputy Utt joined the Carroll County Sheriff's Office in 2023 after serving our nation as a military veteran. Becoming a deputy sheriff was a lifelong dream, and he worked every day to make Carroll County a safer place.'
Utt is remembered as a 'devoted husband, loving father, cherished family member, friend, and respected member of our law enforcement family.' 'His service, courage, and dedication will not be forgotten,' Kemp said, asking the community to keep the late officer's family in thoughts and prayers. 'Carroll County has lost a hero, and a family has suffered an unimaginable loss,' he added.
