A shooting in Pittsylvania County left three sheriff’s deputies injured on Wednesday evening, August 13, when gunfire erupted as they attempted to serve warrants and enforce a protective order near Gretna. The incident unfolded in a normally quiet residential area, leading to a large and swift law enforcement response.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as James Andru Lehnerd, surrendered peacefully after a tense standoff that lasted several hours. The deputies were hurt by shrapnel rather than direct gunfire, and one was taken to the hospital for treatment before being released. All three are expected to recover.
How the Incident Began
The chain of events unfolded on what began as a routine but high-stakes law enforcement operation in Pittsylvania County. Sheriff’s deputies arrived at a residence on Blue Jay Lane with the intent to serve multiple active warrants. These warrants included serious charges—brandishing a firearm, trespassing, and the enforcement of an existing protective order—indicating that the subject was already considered a potential threat.
As the deputies approached the home, the situation escalated rapidly. Without warning, gunfire erupted from inside the residence, forcing the officers to take immediate cover and adopt defensive positions. The unexpected gunshots instantly shifted the mission from serving papers to ensuring survival, as the scene transformed into an active shooter situation.
Recognizing the danger, deputies radioed for urgent backup. Within moments, reinforcements from the Gretna Police Department and the Virginia State Police converged on the scene. Law enforcement quickly established a secure perimeter, blocking entry points to the neighborhood and preventing any civilians from inadvertently walking into the line of fire.
Residents in the vicinity were urged to remain indoors, lock their doors, and stay away from windows. Authorities prioritized both containment and the safety of bystanders, while preparing for the possibility of a prolonged standoff.
Meanwhile, emergency medical teams were strategically stationed nearby, ready to administer life-saving care the moment it was safe to do so. Their presence underscored the seriousness of the situation and the recognition that injuries—whether to officers, the suspect, or civilians—were a very real possibility.
What had begun as an attempt to serve legal warrants had now escalated into a volatile, high-risk confrontation, with the potential for a dangerous and unpredictable outcome.
Injuries and Medical Care
The sheriff’s office confirmed that none of the deputies were directly hit by bullets. Instead, they suffered injuries from shrapnel—fragments from bullets or other materials struck by gunfire. One deputy was transported to a nearby hospital as a precaution, while the other two received treatment at the scene.
Sheriff Michael W. Taylor reassured the community that the deputies are “shaken up but doing well” and are already beginning the healing process.
Negotiation and Arrest
After the initial exchange of gunfire, the situation shifted into a prolonged standoff. Crisis negotiators engaged with the suspect for several hours, working to resolve the conflict without further violence. Just before midnight, Lehnerd exited the home unarmed and was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect was transported to the county jail, where he is being held while formal charges are prepared. Officials have not yet released a complete list of charges, but they are expected to include multiple felony counts.
Law Enforcement Coordination
The response to the shooting in Pittsylvania County highlighted the strong coordination between local and state law enforcement agencies. In addition to the sheriff’s deputies and Gretna Police, specialized units from the Virginia State Police Tactical Team assisted in securing the area and bringing the standoff to an end.
Road closures remained in effect for several hours as investigators processed the scene, collected evidence, and interviewed witnesses.
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Community Impact
Residents in the surrounding neighborhood described a tense and frightening evening. Many reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by the sound of sirens and the sight of heavily armed officers moving into position.
By early Thursday morning, the scene was cleared, and law enforcement assured residents that there was no further threat to the public.
What Happens Next
The Virginia State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting, as is standard protocol when an incident involves multiple agencies and injuries to law enforcement officers. Evidence gathered at the scene will be reviewed alongside body-worn camera footage and witness statements.
Once the investigation is complete, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office will determine the full scope of charges against Lehnerd. In the meantime, the sheriff’s office has confirmed that the injured deputies will be placed on limited duty while they recover.
Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of incident | August 13, 2025 |
| Location | Gretna, Pittsylvania County, Virginia |
| Deputies injured | Three (shrapnel wounds) |
| Hospitalizations | One deputy treated and released |
| Suspect | James Andru Lehnerd |
| Reason for visit | Serving warrants & protective order |
| Agencies involved | Pittsylvania Sheriff’s Office, Gretna Police, VSP |
| Arrest status | Suspect in custody |
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers law enforcement officers face daily. While the quick thinking and protective gear prevented more serious injuries, the event has left a lasting impression on both officers and residents.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information about the case to contact investigators.
We will continue to follow updates on this case. If you have thoughts or questions about this incident, share them below—your voice helps keep the community connected.