A large-scale manhunt is underway in Virginia as law enforcement agencies search for a suspect accused of carrying out a deadly ambush that left one sheriff’s deputy dead and another injured.

According to authorities, the incident occurred Friday night when deputies from the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office responded to a welfare check. What should have been a routine call quickly turned into a nightmare when the officers were allegedly ambushed by an armed suspect.

Deputy Logan Utt, 31, was killed during the attack, according to Carroll County Sheriff Kevin Kemp. Utt was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also a military veteran who served his country before continuing his commitment to public service in his community.

A second deputy was injured in the shooting. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the extent of the officer’s injuries.

Law enforcement officials have identified Michael Puckett as the suspect and describe him as armed and extremely dangerous. Multiple agencies have joined the search effort as authorities work to locate and apprehend him as quickly as possible.

The seriousness of the case has prompted the U.S. Marshals Service to offer a $10,000 reward for information leading to Puckett’s capture.

The tragic loss of Deputy Utt serves as another reminder of the dangers faced every day by the men and women who wear the badge. While many politicians are quick to criticize law enforcement from the comfort of their offices, officers like Utt willingly put themselves in harm’s way to protect their communities.

As the search continues, authorities remain determined to bring the suspect to justice. Communities across Virginia are standing behind law enforcement, honoring Deputy Utt’s sacrifice and supporting the officers working tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.