Suspect identified, more details released in shooting

Editor’s note: This incident was originally reported as happening in Galax, but actually occurred in Grayson County

The investigation remains ongoing by the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Wytheville Field Office into a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred June 24 at approximately 1:04 p.m. in Grayson County.

According to the Virginia State Police, at approximately 12:53 p.m., a Virginia State Police trooper attempted to stop a Toyota Tacoma that was traveling on Route 58 near Glendale Road in Carroll County. The Toyota refused to stop for the trooper and a pursuit was initiated.

“The purpose for the traffic stop was in relation to an ongoing criminal investigation by the Twin County Regional Drug Task Force,” a spokesman for the Virginia State Police said. “The driver, Christopher J. Martin, 46, was wanted on five outstanding felony indictments handed up by a Carroll County Grand Jury on June 17, 2024: Possession of a Schedule I/II narcotic; Possession of a Schedule I/II narcotic with the intent to distribute; Distribution of 28 grams or more of methamphetamine; Possession of a firearm while in possession of a Schedule I/II narcotic; and Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Martin had no established address.”

State police say the pursuit ended at Route 58 and Wild Turkey Lane, after law enforcement were able to contain the suspect vehicle. According to Galax Police Chief DeWitt Cooper, the shooting occurred in Grayson County.

“Martin discharged a firearm. A task force officer and a state trooper returned fire. State police immediately requested EMS to respond to the scene,” according to state police. “Martin was transported to Twin County Regional Healthcare in Galax, where he died. His remains were transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Roanoke for examination and autopsy.”

State police recovered a firearm from inside the Tacoma, the press release stated, noting no law enforcement were injured in the incident.

“Once the investigation is completed, state police will turn its investigative findings over to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for final review and adjudication,” Virginia State Police said. “In accordance with state police policy, the trooper has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.”