Man wanted in deputy ambush Michael Puckett caught after wildlife camera sighting and major manhunt

The manhunt for the “armed and extremely dangerous” suspect wanted in connection with the shooting death of a Virginia deputy came to an end on Sunday with the capture of Michael Puckett in North Carolina, authorities announced.

Carroll County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Puckett was apprehended in Surry County after an extensive search. Earlier that day, he was caught on a wildlife camera at 6:56 a.m. on Greenhill Road north of Mount Airy. A chilling photo of Puckett wearing a baseball cap and some sort of covering was shared by the agency.

Puckett allegedly ambushed two deputies during a welfare check on Friday night, resulting in the killing of military veteran and Carroll County Sheriff’s Office deputy Logan Utt, 31, and injuring another officer, according to Carroll County Sheriff Kevin Kemp.

Prior to Puckett’s capture, the FBI had announced a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his location and arrest. The US Marshals Service also offered a $10,000 reward, making the combined reward total $60,000. It remains unclear if the reward played a role in his capture.

Puckett is facing an aggravated murder charge in Virginia, as confirmed by the police. The FBI’s Richmond Field Office collaborated with the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, US Marshals Service, Virginia State Police, and various local and state agencies in the manhunt for Puckett.

The tragic incident unfolded just before 9:30 p.m. local time when the two Carroll County deputies responded to a home for a welfare check requested by a family member.

Upon encountering Puckett, he allegedly opened fire, resulting in the death of Utt and injuring the second officer. The injured officer’s life was saved by his ballistic vest, as per authorities. The deputies returned fire, but Puckett managed to flee the scene and remained at large.

Utt had joined the force in 2023 after serving as a military veteran. Carroll County Sheriff Kevin Kemp expressed, “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.”

Utt is survived by his wife and children. The wounded deputy is in stable condition and recovering.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger stated, “Deputy Logan Utt’s sacrifice is a testament to his bravery and dedication to his community. 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.”