HENRY CO., Va. – Authorities in Henry County are investigating a deadly standoff that ended with the death of a wanted man, according to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident follows a report of an assault at a local gas station, which set off a search for the suspect.
The situation began on Sunday, April 4, when a woman reported being assaulted by her boyfriend at a Circle K in Collinsville. During the investigation, authorities learned that the suspect committed several acts of violence against the victim, including physical assault, strangulation, and non-consensual sexual acts. It was also reported that Shepard used a firearm to threaten and intimidate her.
The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Christopher Thomas Shepard, was described by law enforcement as an ex-convict believed to be armed with a semi-automatic handgun and considered dangerous. Warrants were obtained for Shepard on multiple felony charges, including physical assault, strangulation, and non-consensual sexual acts. Shepard was also wanted in the State of North Carolina for a probation violation related to a prior violent felony conviction.
Over the next two days, sheriff’s deputies tracked Shepard down and received multiple tips claiming that Shepard remained within a large, wooded tract of land spanning several hundred acres.
On April 6, around 10 a.m., deputies received information that Shepard had possibly been seen entering a wooded area near Berry Hill Court. At approximately 10:45 a.m., deputies, including members of the Sheriff’s office SWAT Team and a K9 unit, located Shepard in that wooded area.
The sheriff’s office says deputies attempted to de-escalate the situation for approximately nine minutes; however, authorities say that when they confronted Shepard, he pointed a gun at them. In response, a member of the SWAT team fired, and Shepard was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident was captured on multiple body-worn cameras, which show that both Shepard and the deputy discharged their firearms nearly simultaneously.
Per standard procedure, the Virginia State Police has been requested to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into this incident. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
Sheriff Wayne Davis stated, “This was a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation involving an armed and violent individual. Our deputies worked diligently to locate and apprehend this suspect while prioritizing public safety. The actions taken ultimately prevented further harm to our community.”
He added, “Our deputies are often faced with split-second decisions in dangerous situations. While these moments are challenging, their commitment remains focused on protecting the citizens of Henry County.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
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