Twenty-Six Virginia Law Enforcement Officers Receive 2026 VACP Awards for Valor
2026 VACP AWARDS PHOTOS (Photo Credit: Erin Schrad, VACP)
2026 VACP AWARDS PROGRAM (PDF)
On September 1, 2026, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation (VACP) recognized twenty-six Virginia law enforcement officers from nine agencies with the Association's highest honor, the Award for Valor. The awards were presented during the VACP Awards Banquet at the 101st Annual VACP Conference in Roanoke, Virginia. The Honorable Abigail D. Spanberger, 75th Governor of Virginia, was the Guest Speaker and also assisted 2025-26 VACP President Chief John P. Clair (Blacksburg) with the presentation of the awards.
The Award for Valor recognizes a law enforcement officer who, in the line of duty, performs an act of extraordinary heroism while engaged with an adversary at imminent personal risk.
Officers receiving the 2026 Awards for Valor are:
Arlington County Police Department
Sergeant Mark Francis
Corporal Robert Stanley
On December 10, 2024, at approximately 3:45 p.m., officers were dispatched for a report of a suspicious person inside a business. The investigation revealed that the suspect engaged employees in conversation while displaying a knife before fleeing the scene.
Corporal Robert Stanley and Sergeant Mark Francis quickly located the suspect at the Rosslyn Metro Station. As they attempted to detain him, the suspect produced a knife and actively resisted, initiating a violent physical altercation while armed. In the effort to create distance and mitigate the threat, Corporal Stanley sustained multiple lacerations.
Faced with an immediate and escalating deadly force encounter, Corporal Stanley discharged his firearm, neutralizing the threat. Both officers immediately transitioned to lifesaving measures until medics arrived and transported the suspect to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Corporal Stanley and Sergeant Francis demonstrated exceptional courage, sound judgment, and unwavering commitment under extreme conditions. In the face of a life-threatening situation, they placed themselves in harm’s way to protect the community and each other, exemplifying the highest standards of the Arlington County Police Department.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Arlington County Sergeant Mark Francis and Corporal Robert Stanley with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Fairfax County Police Department
MPO David R. Antal
MPO Michael W. Weaver
PFC Ian H. LaChapelle
On April 23, 2025, Master Police Officer David Antal was working SET Patrol in the Fair Oaks District when he conducted a routine traffic stop.
After observing a vehicle with no valid inspection and exceeding the posted speed limit, MPO Antal activated the lights on his patrol cruiser and attempted to make a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle slammed on the brakes so hard that the nose of the car dipped and the rear end lifted sharply.
When MPO Antal approached the driver’s side window, he was immediately met by an extremely angry male subject. The driver yelled and demanded to know why he had been stopped. (Unbeknownst to MPO Antal at the time, the driver had a history of encounters with law enforcement charges, including eluding police and resisting arrest, and he had recently been stopped for a similar traffic violation.) The subject refused to provide a driver’s license and stated to MPO Antal that he was armed. MPO Antal calmly attempted to de-escalate the situation while requesting backup.
While waiting for back up to arrive, MPO Antal continued to try and engage the subject in dialogue while remaining calm and alert to the subject’s movements. The subject escalated his rhetoric and was ranting about being a translator for the U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He made several concerning comments to include that he wished he had joined the Taliban instead of helping the United States, that he wished he had never come to the United States, and “Today’s the day, buddy.”
As arriving units’ sirens could be heard in the distance, MPO Antal relayed to the subject to remain calm and to stop reaching for his weapon.
Master Police Officer Mike Weaver and Police Officer First Class Ian LaChapelle arrived at MPO Antal’s location at the same time and calmly approached the vehicle. MPO Weaver approached the driver’s side and PFC LaChapelle approached on the passenger side. As MPO Weaver began speaking, the subject suddenly attempted to place his license out the open driver window. While reaching for the license, MPO Weaver observed the subject drawing his holstered weapon from his waist. MPO Weaver gave clear commands to drop the weapon and attempted to restrain the subject’s hands. However, the subject was able to draw his weapon and fire a round, which struck MPO Weaver in the right arm. The bullet exited MPO Weaver’s arm and subsequently struck MPO Antal in the left arm.
Both MPO Weaver and MPO Antal were able to retreat from the immediate line of fire while PFC LaChapelle was able to swiftly draw his service weapon and neutralize the threat. As MPO Weaver and MPO Antal sought cover to begin triaging their wounds, PFC LaChapelle relayed the situation to dispatch all while maintaining cover from a safe distance of the subject’s vehicle.
Additional units arrived moments later and quickly worked together to relay critical information to responding units as well as set up a reaction team to extricate the subject from his vehicle. Supervisors handled all communications to shut down intersections and direct responding officers to strategic locations. Officers formed into two teams to safely approach the vehicle.
After the subject was removed from his vehicle and the weapon secured, responding officers applied tourniquets to MPO Antal’s and MPO Weaver’s arms and then transported them to Fair Oaks Hospital where they were treated for their wounds and released from that night. They both quickly returned to light duty.
Officers Weaver, Antal, and LaChappelle relied on their training and experience to survive a life-or-death critical incident. And the officers that responded did not hesitate in their actions to immediately clear the vehicle and render aid to their fellow officers along with the shooter. Their quick thinking, commitment to service, and ability to work seamlessly as a team reflect the high standards of excellence that they bring to the Fairfax County Police Department.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Fairfax County Master Police Officer David Antal, Master Police Officer Mike Weaver and Police Officer First Class Ian LaChapelle with the 2026 Award for Valor.
James City County Police Department
Lieutenant Sterling Perry
Sr. Police Officer Killian Burden
On January 28, 2026, James City County Police officers were notified by dispatch of a stabbing that occurred just outside of James City County at a commercial business in York County. They were advised that a female had been stabbed in the neck by a male suspect, who then fled to the Home Depot store. Multiple James City County officers who were close to the area responded to assist the York County Sheriff’s Office with this call and were first to arrive on scene.
Lt. Sterling Perry and Officer Killian Burden were the first officers to locate and confront the suspect inside of the business. As they approached, the suspect armed himself with a metal claw hammer and positioned himself directly in front of the officers. Lt. Perry and Officer Burden repeatedly issued clear verbal commands to the suspect to release the weapon and surrender. However, the suspect refused to drop the weapon. As other officers rushed store patrons away from the scene for their safety, the suspect raised the claw hammer and ran directly at the officers intending to assault them with the weapon.
As both Lt. Perry and Officer Burden were facing an imminent threat of serious injury or even death, both officers discharged their firearms, striking the subject and stopping the threat against them and others. Once the suspect was incapacitated, these officers immediately transitioned from defensive action and began rendering medical aid to the suspect; however, his wounds became fatal.
Lt. Perry and Officer Burden demonstrated exceptional courage, sound judgement, and decisive action under rapidly evolving and life-threatening circumstances. Their swift response and willingness to place themselves in harm’s way to protect the public exemplifies the highest standards of law enforcement service. Their ability to transition to life saving measures on a subject who had threatened them with a possibly deadly attack demonstrates the compassion that must still be shown by officers regardless of circumstances.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor James City County Police Lieutenant Sterling Perry and Senior Officer Killian Burden with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Petersburg Bureau of Police
Lieutenant James Frye
Officer Michael L. Majors, Jr.
On February 17, 2025, Danville Officer Kayla Robinson conducted a follow-up investigation into a hit-and-run incident. She located the suspect and initiated what began as a calm, measured conversation regarding his mental health. During the exchange, the suspect disclosed a history of suicidal ideation, although he claimed he was not currently in crisis. Officer Robinson offered to transport the suspect to receive mental health care.
The suspect suddenly and without warning produced a firearm and opened fire on Officer Robinson.
Despite being taken by surprise and shot multiple times, Officer Robinson drew her weapon and returned fire. The suspect continued his aggressive advance toward her, discharging his weapon repeatedly. During this exchange, Officer Robinson suffered six gunshot wounds—five to her legs and one to her lower right abdomen. Another round struck her ballistic vest, and her duty belt sustained additional damage from the incoming fire.
Her service weapon experienced multiple malfunctions, which she cleared with determination and precision, continuing to return fire and defend herself. The suspect died in the exchange of gunfire. A subsequent investigation revealed that he had intentionally set a fire inside his hotel room and disabled the smoke detectors.
Officer Robinson, with only two years on the job, displayed incredible calm and control in a life-or-death encounter. Alone, outgunned, and severely wounded, she refused to give in to panic.
She embodied courage not just in confronting an armed adversary, but in her unwavering commitment to serve others, even at great personal risk. We are proud to present Danville Officer Kayla M. Robinson with the 2025 VACP Award for Valor.
On March 18, 2026, Petersburg police officers responded in reference to a death investigation. During the initial stages of the investigation, officers developed information that two suspects had fled the scene and were known to be armed with firearms.
Responding personnel quickly established a perimeter, and both suspects were located a short distance from the original crime scene. Upon contact, one suspect surrendered without incident. The second suspect refused lawful commands and fled on foot.
During the foot pursuit, the suspect was carrying a backpack and repeatedly attempted to manipulate it while fleeing. Lieutenant James Frye continued the pursuit with heightened awareness due to the known presence of firearms. The suspect climbed onto the rear porch of an apartment building and continued to reach into the backpack, causing an escalating threat to officer safety.
As the pursuit continued, the suspect entered a cul-de-sac, slowed his pace, began attempting to determine the officers' positions while still reaching into the backpack. The suspect then took a position of cover and concealment behind parked vehicles, further indicating preparation for a potential armed confrontation.
Officer Michael Majors arrived on scene and immediately challenged the suspect, exiting his marked patrol vehicle and issuing clear, lawful commands for the suspect to drop his weapon. The suspect refused to comply and instead assumed a shooting stance.
The suspect discharged multiple rounds at Officer Majors, placing him in immediate danger of serious bodily injury or death.
Despite being directly fired upon, Officer Majors demonstrated exceptional courage and composure by returning fire and maintaining engagement with the armed suspect. Simultaneously, Lieutenant Frye continued to tactically advance, placing himself in harm's way to assist in neutralizing the lethal threat.
During the exchange of gunfire, the suspect attempted to reposition from his initial cover. Lieutenant Frye, recognizing the imminent and continuing danger, discharged his duty weapon and effectively neutralized the threat.
Lieutenant James Frye and Officer Michael Majors demonstrated extraordinary valor in the face of an armed assailant who knowingly and intentionally attempted to inflict deadly harm upon Law Enforcement Officers. Both officers willingly placed themselves in immediate and grave personal danger, exhibiting unwavering commitment to their duty while- under direct gunfire. Their actions required decisive judgment, tactical coordination, and exceptional bravery in a highly volatile situation.
The conduct of both Officers reflects heroism beyond the call of duty, consistent with the highest traditions of law enforcement service in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Petersburg Bureau of Police Lieutenant James Frye and Officer Michael Majors with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Prince William County Police Department
Police Officer Kyle A. Fletcher
Police Officer Robert S. Niewenhous
On April 26, 2025, at approximately 10 am, Police Officers Kyle Fletcher and Robert Niewenhous responded to an assisted living facility located on Clipper Drive in Woodbridge. They were dispatched in response to a call regarding a suicide in progress involving a 25-year-old male who was actively stabbing himself with a knife.
Upon arrival, the officers attempted to make contact with the occupants of the apartment but received no response at the door. A staff member from the complex provided officers with a keycard to access the unit and told them the victim was being held at knife point by her grandson.
As both officers entered the apartment, they announced their presence and immediately saw the enraged suspect holding a knife near the two female occupants in the apartment. Officers Fletcher and Niewenhous quickly entered the very small apartment.
Officer Fletcher immediately moved into the kitchen, separated from the living room by a breakfast bar. Officer Niewenhous moved forward into the brief foyer of the apartment. Despite their attempts to maneuver, both officers found themselves forced to be within a few feet of the suspect in hopes of interrupting his apparent homicidal intentions.
Both officers drew their firearms, pointed them at the suspect and gave him clear, loud commands to drop the knife he was holding. The suspect redirected his attention away from the occupants and focused on the officers. Without warning, the suspect then charged towards Officer Fletcher, attempting to climb over the breakfast bar to stab him with the knife. Officer Flethcer, in fear that he would imminently be stabbed or killed, discharged his firearm multiple times striking the suspect.
In response to the suspect charging at the officers, both officers backed away from the suspect towards the apartment entryway. The officers then regrouped at the entryway and yelled commands at the subject to drop the knife and stop his attack. The suspect momentarily retreated off of the breakfast bar and focused his attention towards Officer Niewenhous and Officer Fletcher standing in the entryway. Despite having already been shot, the suspect charged and attacked both Officers who were again forced to fire their weapons, striking the suspect multiple times.
During this second attack, the Officers had stepped backwards as the suspect attacked, momentarily placing them just outside the apartment in the hallway. Seeing that the suspect appeared to be retreating back into the living room, both Officers pushed forward and yelled commands at the suspect. As they entered the apartment, they observed the suspect advancing toward his ninety-one-year-old grandmother with the knife. The Officers desperately yelled commands for the suspect to stop his attack and drop the knife, but despite being shot multiple times, he refused to comply and continued to advance towards his grandmother with apparent homicidal intention. Both officers were once again forced to discharge their firearms at the suspect to stop his attack. After this third volley, the suspect finally stopped being a threat and collapsed to the ground. As other Officers arrived, the suspect was placed into handcuffs and Officers began administering first aid until rescue services arrived.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene, and the grandmother was transported to INOVA Fairfax Hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Amazingly neither Officer was injured during the incident.
The Officers knowingly, and at great risk, placed themselves in harm’s way to stop a homicidal subject. Regardless of the outcome, the involved Officers acted quickly and professionally during an extremely stressful encounter, engaged the subject at imminent risk to themselves, and displayed extraordinary heroism in doing so.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Prince William County Officer Kyle Fletcher and Officer Robert Niewenhous with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Radford City Police Department
Lieutenant Evan S. McManus
Sergeant Jordan Ellis
Officer Jacob Caudell
On April 20, 2026, Lieutenant Evan McManus, Sergeant Jordan Ellis, and Officer Jacob Caudell responded to a residence regarding a report that a roommate had barricaded himself inside while armed with multiple knives. Upon arrival, the officers established verbal contact from outside the home and immediately evacuated a roommate to a safe location, preventing potential harm to an uninvolved party.
Recognizing the volatility of the situation, Sergeant Ellis demonstrated exceptional tactical foresight by deploying his less lethal shotgun while Lieutenant McManus maintained lethal cover. The subject, later identified as a mental health consumer in crisis, suddenly emerged from the residence armed with a knife and advanced toward the officers in a threatening manner. Despite numerous clear and repeated verbal commands, the subject refused to comply and continued to close distance.
In an effort to resolve the encounter without loss of life, Officer Caudell deployed his Taser. The device proved ineffective, and the subject continued to advance with the knife in hand. With lethal force legally justified and seconds from becoming necessary, Sergeant Ellis fired three less lethal beanbag rounds, striking the subject and stopping his forward movement. This decisive action created the critical opportunity for the officers to safely take the individual into custody and ensure he received immediate mental health treatment.
Historically, incidents of this nature overwhelmingly result in the justified use of deadly force. In most cases, this subject would not have survived this encounter — through no fault of the responding officers — but due to the immediacy and severity of the threat. However, Lieutenant McManus, Sergeant Ellis, and Officer Caudell demonstrated extraordinary restraint, discipline, and commitment to preserving life, even while facing a subject who was actively threatening to kill them.
Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing. Through exceptional teamwork, sound judgment, and the courageous use of less lethal options under extreme pressure, these officers prevented a fatal outcome and ensured that a person in crisis received the treatment he desperately needed.
For their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the preservation of human life, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Radford City Lieutenant Evan McManus, Sergeant Jordan Ellis, and Officer Jacob Caudell with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Richmond Police Department
Officer Antonio Fitzpatrick
Officer Miguel Reyes
On January 17, 2026, Officers Antonio Fitzpatrick and Miguel Reyes responded to an armed suspect. Upon arrival, they observed a suspect actively firing a handgun at the Greater Richmond Transit Company building and threatening nearby civilians.
While under gunfire, Officers Fitzpatrick and Reyes took cover, assessed the situation, and developed a plan to stop the threat. The officers then advanced from cover, issued commands, and engaged the suspect when he continued to present a deadly threat. Their actions successfully neutralized the suspect and ended the immediate danger to the public.
Neither officer was injured, and no civilians were harmed. By courageously confronting an active armed threat and placing themselves in harm's way to protect others, Officers Fitzpatrick and Reyes demonstrated exceptional bravery, professionalism, and devotion to duty.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Richmond Officer Antonio Fitzpatrick and Officer Miguel Reyes with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Richmond Police Department
Sergeant Brady McWhirter
Sergeant Kelly Morley
Sergeant Taylor Sensabaugh
On July 5th, 2025, Richmond Police officers responded to a convenience store for a report of an armed subject who had stabbed someone inside the store. Initial reports indicated that the subject was holding multiple individuals hostage and was under the influence of methamphetamine. When officers arrived, they discovered that the suspect had locked the front doors and was actively blocking the cashier and three patrons from exiting.
The cashier, suffering from a significant stab wound to the arm, was in urgent need of medical assistance. A plan was quickly formulated to evacuate hostages through a rear door, while the suspect held them at gunpoint through the locked front glass doors.
Inside the store, the suspect continued to make violent threats while armed with knives. At one point, he was seen attempting to stab himself in the neck.
After the cashier was evacuated, officers learned that a personal firearm belonging to the cashier was on the store counter, within reach of the subject. This significantly escalated the urgency to act before the suspect could arm himself.
The team developed a tactical plan. The front of the building was cleared and traffic was shut down to prevent risk to the public. The entry team approached from the rear. Sergeant McWhirter led the entry, Sergeant Morley, and Officer Sensabaugh followed, while additional officers flanked the structure. A K9 was deployed as coverage, and the team moved swiftly and tactically. The suspect, still armed with multiple knives and refusing commands, was struck by a single round from Sergeant McWhirter and immediately subdued. The suspect was taken into custody and charged with three counts of abduction, one count of malicious wounding, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Each officer knowingly placed themselves in immediate danger to stop an armed, violent subject and protect the hostages and the public. Their coordinated tactics and decisive actions prevented what could have been a far more devastating incident. Their valor, composure, and commitment to duty reflected the highest standards of law enforcement.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Richmond Police Sergeant Brady McWhirter, Sergeant Kelly Morley, and Officer Taylor Sensabaugh with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Richmond Police Department
Sergeant Glenn Gohlke
Sergeant Shane Watson
On an early morning search warrant on August 20, 2025, the RPD SWAT team, with the assistance of Third Precinct officers, attempted to execute the warrant to secure an apartment for a firearm “switch” device that converts a semi-automatic firearm into a machine-gun-type weapon.
The SWAT team positioned themselves, and announcements were made for the occupants to exit the apartment. The grandmother of the subject of the warrant exited the apartment shortly thereafter and was led to safety.
Officer Glenn Gohlke, holding a rifle shield, positioned himself just outside the open door of the apartment to give commands for the occupants to exit. Gunfire erupted from the residence, striking the shield and also the protective gear of Gohlke, pushing him back. In that moment, Sergeant Watson, without a shield, put himself in harms way to take a position at the other side of the door to provide time and cover for his teammate.
Despite sustaining multiple rounds, Officer Gohlke quickly regained his position and continued to protect his team, demonstrating remarkable courage under life-threatening conditions. His actions helped ensure the safety of fellow officers and contributed to the successful securing of the scene.
Due to the high-capacity firearms found in the apartment, the entry team was in imminent danger prior to the structure being cleared – especially Sergeant Watson, who positioned himself at the door without benefit of a shield. Sergeant Watson displayed bravery, composure, calmness, and professionalism during the chaotic situation.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Richmond Sergeant Shane Watson and Officer Glenn Gohlke with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Shenandoah County Sheriff's Office
Master Deputy Joshua L. Cook
On August 17, 2025, Master Deputy Joshua Cook responded to a report of a sexual assault involving a juvenile victim and an adult male suspect. Upon arrival, Master Deputy Cook located the suspect seated on the front porch of the residence and attempted to conduct an interview. The suspect refused to cooperate or provide any information.
Master Deputy Cook entered the residence to continue his investigation, where he gathered critical information from family members. He learned that the suspect had recently been released from prison, had a history of assaulting law enforcement officers, and was currently out on bond.
Master Deputy Cook returned to the porch to detain the suspect. With handcuffs in hand, he instructed the suspect to stand. As the suspect complied, he suddenly and violently shoved Master Deputy Cook off the porch. The force of the push caused Cook to fall to the ground and drop his handcuffs. The suspect immediately began striking him multiple times.
Despite being under attack, Master Deputy Cook attempted to regain control of the situation; however, the suspect gained possession of the handcuffs. Recognizing the escalating threat, Master Deputy Cook created distance and drew his service weapon, issuing multiple commands for the suspect to get on the ground. The suspect ignored these commands, continued to advance aggressively, and again forced Cook to the ground, resuming his assault—this time striking him with the handcuffs.
While being actively assaulted and from a grounded position, Master Deputy Cook discharged his firearm in an effort to stop the attack. After being shot, the suspect continued to strike Cook multiple times in the head with the handcuffs.
The assault persisted until Master Deputy Cook was able to create sufficient distance and the suspect, weakened by his injuries, was no longer able to continue the attack. At that point, Master Deputy Cook was able to notify dispatch that shots had been fired and provided an update on both his condition and that of the suspect.
Despite sustaining injuries during the assault, Master Deputy Cook maintained situational awareness and held his position, ensuring the suspect remained on the ground.
Demonstrating a continued commitment to preserving life, Master Deputy Cook approached the suspect and attempted to render lifesaving aid. However, due to the severity of his own injuries, he was unable to continue providing medical assistance. He then repositioned himself to a location where he could safely observe the suspect while awaiting additional units. Master Deputy Cook remained on scene, injured and without immediate backup, maintaining control and monitoring the suspect until additional responding deputies arrived approximately ten minutes after the assault had ended.
Master Deputy Cook was transported to the hospital with severe lacerations to his head where he was treated and released. The suspect succumbed to his injuries.
Master Deputy Joshua Cook’s actions during this incident exemplify extraordinary bravery, resilience, and unwavering dedication to duty. Faced with a violent suspect who had already demonstrated a willingness to inflict serious harm, Master Deputy Cook continued to engage despite being physically assaulted, disarmed of his equipment, and struck repeatedly, including in the head. While under direct and sustained attack, he maintained composure, made critical decisions under extreme duress, and used lawful force to stop a life-threatening assault. Even after sustaining significant injuries, Master Deputy Cook demonstrated remarkable fortitude by communicating with dispatch, maintaining control of the scene without immediate backup, and attempting to render aid to the suspect. His actions reflect a commitment to the protection of others and the preservation of life, placing himself at great personal risk.
For courage and perseverance in the face of imminent danger, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Shenandoah County Master Deputy Joshua Cook with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Virginia State Police
Sr. Trooper Pedro Y.A. Salamanca
Trooper William R. Keesee
Trooper Dylan J. Welsh
On December 1st, 2025, Trooper William Keesee and Senior Trooper Pedro Salamanca were part of a tactical team that responded to a barricade incident in northwest Roanoke where they ultimately protected the life of a fellow trooper.
The barricade followed a pursuit by a U.S. Marshals Service Task Force, which was trying to take a violent fugitive into custody. The suspect fled the attempted stop, struck several law enforcement vehicles, and then abandoned the car in a residential neighborhood.
The suspect had been inside a residence for several hours when the Tactical team responded and made numerous efforts to try and resolve the situation peacefully. Chemical munitions were deployed in an attempt to force a surrender. The suspect then emerged from a doorway and aimed a firearm at Trooper Dylan Welsh who, at that moment, was armed only with a Taser device.
Recognizing the immediate and deadly threat to their fellow trooper and responding without hesitation, Troopers Keesee and Salamanca confronted the threat with lethal force. Their swift and decisive actions protected the life of Trooper Welsh. The suspect’s firearm was later determined to have been illegally modified to allow multiple shots with one pull. Troopers Keesee and Salamanca provided medical aid to the suspect until EMS personnel arrived.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor State Police Sr. Trooper Pedro Salamanca, Trooper Dylan J. Welsh, and Trooper William Keesee with the 2026 Award for Valor.
Virginia State Police
Trooper John D. Winebrenner
On December 29, 2025, Virginia State Trooper John D. Winebrenner was on duty and assigned as the only trooper working the midnight shift in Pittsylvania County, the largest county in terms of square miles in the Commonwealth. Shortly after midnight, Trooper Winebrenner was notified by the Virginia State Police Sixth Division Communications Center to be on the lookout for a vehicle that had been pursued by deputies with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. Information was provided that the driver was wanted by the sheriff’s office for three counts of brandishing a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The charges stemmed from an earlier incident where the subject, armed with a rifle, made threats to a known female. During the deputies’ pursuit of the wanted subject, one deputy crashed and law enforcement lost sight of the suspect.
While enroute to investigate the crash involving the deputy, Trooper Winebrenner remained vigilant and scoured the roadways to locate the suspect vehicle. Because of this, Trooper Winebrenner was able to locate the suspect vehicle on U. S. Highway 29 in the northern part of Pittsylvania County.
When Trooper Winebrenner activated his vehicle’s emergency equipment and attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the suspect failed to stop and a pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, which continued onto rural secondary roads with Trooper Winebrenner as the sole law enforcement officer involved, Trooper Winebrenner was able to successfully perform a Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) on the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle spun off the roadway and struck a fence as Trooper Winebrenner’s vehicle stopped perpendicular to the driver’s door of the suspect vehicle. After both vehicles came to a stop, the wanted suspect suddenly began firing a semi-automatic rifle from close range into the interior of Trooper Winebrenner’s vehicle while Trooper Winebrenner was still inside
With no time to retrieve firearms other than his duty pistol on his side, Trooper Winebrenner drew his pistol and returned fire while quickly exiting his vehicle and engaging the suspect who continued to fire multiple rounds into the State Police vehicle and at Trooper Winebrenner. During the barrage of gunfire aimed at Trooper Winebrenner, he suffered a gunshot wound to his left arm and shrapnel wounds to his face and head.
Due to Trooper Winebrenner’s quick decision to exit his vehicle, and his proficiency with firearms, Trooper Winebrenner was able to overcome the imminent threat to his life and survive the encounter. The suspect succumbed to injuries at the scene.
After the threat was stopped, Trooper Winebrenner then had to ensure his survival by beginning life saving measures on himself. He was able to apply a tourniquet to his arm, calmly notify his dispatcher of what had occurred, and request emergency medical services.
Shortly afterward, deputies with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and were able to tighten the tourniquet on Trooper Winebrenner’s arm and transport him to a nearby hospital since all medical helicopters in the vicinity were unable to fly due to the weather conditions.
Trooper Winebrenner’s actions in this incident reflect his dedication to duty, service to the community, and his bravery. Without Trooper Winebrenner’s vigilant response to the be on the lookout given to him by his dispatcher, the suspect would have likely confronted the victim of the earlier brandishing a firearm incident and followed through on his threats. His bravery when suddenly confronted with gunfire from a semi-automatic rifle at close range exemplifies the ideal “shall consider no sacrifice too great in the performance of my duty” as contained in the Virginia State Police Trooper’s pledge.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor State Police Trooper John Winebrenner with the 2026 Award for Valor.
