Virginia State Police have identified the Smyth County Sheriff’s deputy killed in a tragic shooting on Friday as 27-year-old Hunter Reedy, a father of three. The incident, which also left another deputy injured, occurred during a traffic stop that escalated into a deadly confrontation.
Who Was Hunter Reedy?
The chain of events began when Marion Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Route 16. The driver, later identified as Timothy Wayne Goodman, 65, of North Carolina, failed to comply immediately, leading police on a short pursuit. The vehicle finally stopped near the intersection of Route 16 and Hatchery Drive, where the situation took a violent turn.
According to Virginia State Police, Goodman opened fire on the officers and deputies at the scene, striking both Deputy Reedy and Deputy Michael Fedorchuk. Law enforcement returned fire, injuring Goodman, who was then taken into custody. He is currently recovering from minor injuries and faces a slew of charges, including one count of aggravated murder and four counts of attempted aggravated murder.
Deputy Michael Fedorchuk, who was also injured in the shooting, was airlifted to a hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. According to Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip Blevins, Deputy Fedorchuk is expected to make a full recovery and is being discharged from the hospital.
Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip Blevins expressed his profound sorrow at the loss of Deputy Reedy, stating, “The heartbreaking death of Deputy Reedy is profound. We are mourning the loss of a father, husband, son, friend, and community hero. I will not rest until the murderer is held accountable for his actions.”
Deputy Reedy had served with the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office for seven years, dedicating his life to protecting his community. His tragic death has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the local area. The Charlottesville Police Department and many others have extended their deepest condolences to Deputy Reedy’s family, colleagues, and friends, acknowledging the ultimate sacrifice he made in the line of duty.
The incident is under investigation by Virginia State Police, who continue to piece together the details of the confrontation that led to this devastating loss. Charges against Goodman are pending, with the full weight of the law expected to be brought to bear.
Deputy Hunter Reedy leaves behind a wife and three young children. His service and sacrifice will be remembered by all who knew him.