Three Pittsylvania County, Virginia, deputies were injured Wednesday night while serving warrants in the town of Gretna after a suspect allegedly opened fire on them. The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office said the deputies were not directly struck by bullets but were wounded by shrapnel during the exchange. All three sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to recover.
Authorities identified the suspect as James Andru Lehnerd. According to officials, deputies approached a residence to serve warrants when Lehnerd reportedly began firing. The confrontation led to an hourslong standoff involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Initial news reports suggested the deputies had been shot, but law enforcement clarified that shrapnel from gunfire caused their injuries.
The New York Times reported that the standoff took place in southern Virginia and involved sustained gunfire from the suspect. After hours of negotiation and tactical operations, Lehnerd was taken into custody without further harm to officers or nearby residents.
Lehnerd has been charged with Felony Attempted Aggravated Murder of a Law Enforcement Officer. Authorities have not released details about the nature of the warrants or the firearm used in the incident. The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with additional charges possible as evidence is reviewed.
Law enforcement officials have expressed relief that the deputies’ injuries were not more severe and credited the quick actions of officers on the scene for preventing further harm. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that serving warrants is one of the most unpredictable and dangerous aspects of police work, underscoring the risks officers face daily.
The incident has drawn attention across Virginia, with local residents voicing support for the deputies and gratitude for their service. Lehnerd remains in custody pending court proceedings.
