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    Gretna Standoff: Deputies Ambushed While Protecting Victim, One Hospitalized as SWAT Rescues Under Fire

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    In a dramatic and dangerous confrontation on Wednesday evening, August 13, 2025, three Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s deputies were injured warrants and a protective order at a residence on Blue Jay Lane in Gretna, Virginia. The incident, which unfolded just before 5 p.m., triggered a massive law enforcement response and culminated in the arrest of the suspect, James Andru Lehnerd.

    ### The Encounter
    Deputies arrived at the residence to serve warrants for brandishing a firearm and trespassing, along with a protective order. As they approached the door, they were met with sudden gunfire. Contrary to initial reports suggesting the deputies had been shot, Sheriff Mike Taylor later clarified that the injuries were caused by shrapnel from the gunfire. Two deputies were struck; one was transported to a local hospital out of caution and has since been released. The third deputy escaped injury.

    ### ️‍♂️ Tactical Response
    Due to the volatile nature of the situation and the difficulty in safely extracting the injured deputies, a SWAT team was deployed. The standoff lasted several hours, during which law enforcement established a secure perimeter around the residence and coordinated efforts to de-escalate the threat.

    Eventually, Lehnerd surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without further incident. He is currently being held at the Pittsylvania County Jail, with charges pending as the investigation continues.

    ### Investigation and Legal Proceedings
    The Virginia State Police have taken the lead in the investigation, with agents expected to remain on the scene throughout the night to collect evidence. Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Haskins confirmed that Lehnerd is likely facing serious charges, though specifics have not yet been released.

    ### Massive Multi-Agency Response
    The gravity of the situation drew support from a wide array of agencies, including:

    – Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office
    – Campbell County Sheriff’s Office
    – Amherst County Sheriff’s Office
    – Danville Police Department
    – Virginia State Police
    – Gretna Fire and Rescue
    – Hurt Fire Department
    – U.S. Marshals
    – Centra medical helicopter

    The intersection of Pittsville Road and Homestead Road was described as a “very heavy scene,” with emergency vehicles and personnel flooding the area.

    ### ️ Community and Official Reactions
    U.S. Representative John McGuire, who represents Virginia’s 5th congressional district, expressed his concern and support for the injured deputies, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with the deputies who were shot in Pittsylvania County, as well as their families. We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time.”

    ### Local Impact
    While the incident caused significant disruption in the Gretna area, authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Residents were advised to avoid the area during the operation, and local schools and businesses were unaffected due to the timing of the event.

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