GRETNA, Virginia — On Wednesday, three sheriff’s deputies were injured during a gunfire incident while executing warrants in southern Virginia. Fortunately, officials report that the deputies, while understandably shaken, are doing well.
Sheriff Michael W. Taylor of Pittsylvania County explained that the warrants were related to brandishing a firearm and trespassing, as well as serving a protective order.
During the incident, there was a standoff that lasted several hours, but thankfully it concluded peacefully, with the suspected shooter taken into custody. Sheriff Taylor reassured the public, stating, “All three are well… They’re going through the process now of trying to heal.”
The deputies appear to have been injured by shrapnel rather than direct gunfire, which is a small relief in such a dangerous situation. The sheriff has requested an investigation into the incident by the Virginia State Police. Sgt. Rick Garletts of the Virginia State Police mentioned that agents would be onsite throughout the night to gather evidence.
“We’re very happy that there were no further injuries tonight. This could have ended much worse than it did,” Garletts stated, emphasizing the positive outcome amidst a tense situation.
In the wake of the incident, U.S. Rep. John McGuire, who represents Virginia’s 5th congressional district, expressed his support for the deputies and their families on social media, saying, “We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time.”
Pittsylvania County is situated on the southern border of Virginia, about 98 miles northwest of Raleigh, North Carolina. The community is grateful that the deputies are recovering and that the situation was resolved without further harm.
