The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an urgent search for a career criminal described as 'armed and extremely dangerous' after he allegedly shot and killed a young sheriff's deputy in Virginia on Friday evening.
Details of the Incident
Michael Timothy Puckett, 55, is accused of murdering Carroll County Sheriff Logan Utt, 31, near the community of Fancy Gap in southern Virginia at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Friday. Utt, a father and military veteran, was conducting a welfare check alongside another deputy when the shooting occurred. The second deputy was also shot but survived thanks to a ballistic vest.
Nearly 48 hours after the incident, Puckett remains at large. The FBI has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
Puckett's Criminal History
Police records indicate that Puckett has been arrested 29 times in Virginia over the past decade. His alleged offenses include arson in July 2023 and multiple charges related to the possession and manufacture of explosives. He was first convicted for possessing an explosive in 2015 and has faced similar charges in subsequent years. In 2016, he was convicted of illegally possessing a sawed-off shotgun and altering a firearm's serial number. He served prison time, though much of his sentence was suspended. At the time of the shooting, Puckett was awaiting trial on three felony cases.
Law Enforcement Response
The US Marshals Service has urged anyone who sees Puckett to dial 911 immediately and exercise extreme caution, describing him as an 'explosives expert' with 'violent tendencies.' The agency noted that Puckett has tattoos on both arms and his neck and may have ties to the Cana and Ararat areas of Virginia.
FBI Director Kash Patel shared a post from the agency's Norfolk field office on Sunday, which stated: 'The Carroll County Sheriff's Office is surging local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to locate and capture Michael Timothy Puckett. Additional resources from the FBI, US Marshals, ATF, along with multiple local agencies continue to assist.'
The FBI Norfolk field office added: 'We are asking the public to check surveillance video or trail/hunting camera images to assist in real-time tracking of the fugitive. We also ask home and business owners to lock your vehicles, close your garage doors, lock up your sheds and do not leave anything outside Puckett could use to assist him to elude capture. Call 911 if you see Puckett.'
Tributes to Deputy Utt
Carroll County Sheriff's Office released a statement confirming Utt's death, describing him as a devoted husband, loving father, and respected member of the law enforcement family. Utt joined the department in 2023 after serving in the US military, fulfilling a lifelong dream to become a deputy sheriff. 'His service, courage, and dedication will not be forgotten,' the statement read.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger also paid tribute, writing on X: 'Deputy Logan Utt’s sacrifice is a testament to his bravery and dedication to his community. To Deputy Utt’s family, friends, and the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office - as you grieve, know that the entire Commonwealth stands with you at this extremely difficult time. Adam and I are praying for Deputy Utt’s family, the injured officer during his recovery, and for the safety of all of our courageous men and women in law enforcement.'
