Smyth County, Va. community shows support for fallen, injured deputies

SMYTH COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) – After two Smyth County deputies were shot in the line of duty, leaving one of them dead, community members are working to repay the service of their men and women in uniform.

Deputy Hunter Reedy was tragically killed in a shooting during a traffic stop on Friday night, and Deputy Michael Fedorchuck was injured.

“We’re all distraught,” said Sheriff Chip Shuler following a press conference. “We’re a small agency, and we’re all very close.”

“Our officers are always right here when we need them,” said Cori Fullen, owner of Blue Ridge Outfitters in Marion. “So we want to be there for them like they are for us.”

On Saturday afternoon, Law enforcement agencies participated in a procession that brought Fedorchuck home from the hospital after he had emergency surgery.

Fullen said her cousin helped lead the procession. She said the procession showed the impact that Friday night’s tragedy had.

“It is amazing the support from all of the local agencies that have just stepped in and kind of taken over our county, so that all of our deputies and officers can be where they need to be with their fallen officers,’ Fullen said.

Sheriff Shuler repeated the same sentiment.

“I’ve got calls from all over the state offering assistance to my office,” said Shuler. “We’re all brothers and sisters in brown, blue, gray, whatever we wear.”

Fullen chose to designate a place for donations to Reedy and Fedorchuk’s families in her store. She said she has seen an impact after just one day.

“We’ve had customers come in just to put money in the box,” said Fullen. “It’s just been overwhelming, the response. And this just goes to show how strong Smyth County can be as a community.”

Fullen is also partnering with Forever and Always Designs of the Appalachia’s to create a #SmythStrong t-shirt . All proceeds from the shirts will be donated back to the families of Fedorchuk and Reedy.

Gov. Youngkin provided an updated statement on Sunday regarding the shooting, and said he’s ordered flags in the Commonwealth to be flown at half-staff on the day of Reedy’s memorial service.

We ask for everyone to lift-up in prayer and support the family, friends, and colleagues of Deputy Hunter Reedy, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. It’s a stark reminder that our law enforcement heroes risk their lives every day and his bravery and commitment to protecting and serving the Smyth County community will never be forgotten. Suzanne and I are so grateful for the support being poured out for Deputy Reedy’s family. We continue to pray for the swift and full recovery of Deputy Fedorchuk, who was also struck by gunfire in the same incident. During this difficult time, we stand united in support of our entire law enforcement community and their families.

Governor Glenn Youngkin

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