Appomattox County Sheriff’s deputy killed assisting at Campbell County crash scene

APPOMATTOX COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) - An Appomattox County Sheriff’s deputy was killed in the line of duty Thursday, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Burlie W. Duvall III died at the scene of a crash in Campbell County, according to Virginia State Police.

Police say at 5:34 p.m. August 6, 2026, troopers responded to an eight-vehicle, chain-reaction crash on westbound Route 460, about four-tenths of a mile west of Cabin Field Road.

The preliminary investigation indicates two Appomattox County Sheriff’s deputies, including Duvall, were traveling home from the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy and stopped to assist at the scene of an initial crash, according to police. Their vehicles were positioned in the two left lanes with emergency equipment activated.

Police say the driver of a tractor-trailer, approaching the crash scene, swerved to avoid the vehicles and hit Deputy Duvall, 33, of Concord.

About seven people were transported to hospitals with injuries ranging in severity, according to police. None of the injuries was considered life-threatening.

Duvall’s body was taken to the Medical Examiner’s office in Roanoke after the crash, and Friday, his body was escorted by Virginia law enforcement back to Appomattox County.

Appomattox County Sheriff Robert N. Richardson released this statement:

Today, our Sheriff’s Office is grieving the unimaginable loss of one of our own and it is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Appomattox County Sheriff’s Office announces the line-of-duty death of Deputy Burlie W. Duvall III.

Deputy Burlie W. Duvall III dedicated his life to protecting our community, and he gave that life while serving others. His courage, selflessness, and commitment to duty will never be forgotten. We ask everyone to keep Duvall’s family, our Sheriff Office’s family, and all those affected by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate the difficult days ahead.

The Appomattox County Sheriff’s Office extends its heartfelt gratitude to the numerous law enforcement agencies, fire and EMS personnel, emergency dispatchers, and members of the community who have offered their support during this incredibly difficult time.

Deputy Duvall’s sacrifice will never be forgotten. His service, dedication and commitment to the citizens of Appomattox County will forever remain a part of the legacy of this Sheriff’s Office.

Duvall’s resume includes a stint as a public safety officer at Centra: