Smyth County Sheriff's Deputy Hunter Dakota Reedy, a 28-year-old male, tragically lost his life in the line of duty on Friday, August 9, 2024. The fatal encounter occurred in Marion, Virginia, during what began as a routine traffic stop. Deputy Reedy was assisting officers from the Marion Police Department who had initiated the stop for a moving violation.
The vehicle continued for about a mile and a half into Smyth County before pulling over.
As officers dealt with the driver, the situation escalated dramatically. The driver, identified as 65-year-old Timothy Wayne Goodman of North Carolina, became increasingly agitated after being issued a traffic summons. Without warning, Goodman opened fire, striking both Deputy Reedy and another deputy. Officers on the scene immediately returned fire, wounding Goodman in the exchange.
Deputy Reedy was fatally wounded during the shootout. The other injured deputy was later released from the hospital with minor injuries. Goodman, the suspect, was hospitalized following the incident and died from his injuries a week later. Before his death, he was charged with aggravated murder, four counts of attempted aggravated murder, and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Hunter Reedy had dedicated his career to law enforcement, serving with the Smyth County Sheriff's Office for three years and previously with the Chilhowie Police Department for four years. Remembered as a beloved husband, father of three, son, and friend, his death was a profound loss to his family and the community he served. His adventurous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
