Chris Wagner II Death: According to authorities, a police officer was fatally shot during a struggle with an assault suspect in the woods of a Virginia mountain town on Saturday.
According to a Facebook post by Chief Dennis Russell, Officer Mark Christopher Wagner II of the Wintergreen Police Department was killed on Friday night.
According to a news release from the Virginia State Police, Wintergreen authorities were notified of a man attacking two other men at a residence. According to state police, two men who had sustained injuries fled from the residence prior to the arrival of law enforcement officials. The individuals were later treated at a medical facility for injuries that were not deemed life-threatening, although the nature of the injuries has not been disclosed.
According to reports, Wagner located the assault suspect in a nearby wooded area and a physical altercation ensued. According to state police, Wagner was fatally shot during the confrontation.
According to state police, the suspect was apprehended and subsequently received medical attention at a hospital for injuries of an unspecified nature that were not deemed life-threatening. The individual’s identity was not immediately disclosed. The charges he faces were not immediately clear.
According to Wintergreen Police Chief Russell, 31-year-old Wagner had been a member of the police force since August of last year. According to Russell, he had served seven years with the Massanutten Police Department.
According to the police chief, Wagner, also known as Chris, had a passion for hiking and capturing the beauty of nature through photography during his free time. According to Russell, Wagner requested and fulfilled the midnight shift.
According to sources, Chris demonstrated a strong commitment to his job and was always prepared to take on additional responsibilities when needed. He was described as being eager and capable in these situations. According to Russell, his dedication to the community was undeniable and his affection for the badge was apparent.
Wintergreen is situated approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) to the west of Richmond.
