A fugitive suspect wanted in the fatal shooting of a Virginia cop was caught on a wildlife camera in North Carolina.
Michael Timothy Puckett, 55, allegedly shot and killed Deputy Logan Utt after officers from the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office were called for a welfare check at a home along Fancy Gap Highway on Friday night, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office said.
Puckett fled the scene and was not seen again until Sunday morning, when he was spotted on a wildlife game camera in Surry County, North Carolina, WSLS reported.
Despite the sighting, the manhunt for Puckett remained underway Sunday afternoon, with the U.S. Marshals Service offering $10,000 for information leading to his arrest. The FBI is also offering a $50,000 reward.
Puckett is accused of opening fire on Utt and another Carroll County Sheriff’s Office deputy on Friday night as they responded to the welfare check just before 9:30 p.m.
open image in galleryAuthorities said both officers were struck by gunfire.
Utt joined the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office in 2023 after serving in the military, the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
The second deputy was struck in his ballistic vest and is currently receiving medical evaluation. He is believed to be in stable condition, authorities said.
Puckett remained at large Sunday afternoon. Law enforcement officials warn he should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information on Puckett or his whereabouts is advised to call 911 immediately.
open image in galleryFBI Richmond is asking the public to check surveillance video or trail/hunting camera images to help track Puckett.
The FBI is also asking home and business owners to lock their vehicles, close their garage doors, lock their sheds, and to not leave anything outside that Puckett could use to assist him evade authorities.
Authorities said their investigation remains ongoing.