MECKLENBURG COUNTY, Va. — Authorities have identified the man who was fatally shot by a Virginia State trooper on Sunday as 39-year-old Derek C. Holland of Cary, North Carolina. The deadly encounter followed a police pursuit that ended in a crash and an armed confrontation.
The incident began around 3:57 p.m. on Sunday when Virginia State Police responded to reports of a “suspicious situation” along Highway 903 in Mecklenburg County. When troopers arrived at the scene, they observed a vehicle attempting to flee. Officers initiated a pursuit in an effort to stop the driver and investigate the situation further.
The chase ended when Holland’s vehicle left the roadway and crashed into an open field. According to police, after the crash, Holland exited the vehicle while holding a knife. Despite repeated commands from the trooper to drop the weapon and surrender, Holland allegedly refused to comply. Law enforcement officials said the situation quickly escalated.
In response to what was described as a perceived threat, the trooper discharged their weapon. Holland was struck and pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured during the incident. Virginia State Police confirmed the trooper involved has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing, which is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings.
The Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the use of deadly force. Officials are gathering witness statements, physical evidence, and reviewing any available video footage. Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be handed over to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Mecklenburg County for further review.
This fatal encounter has raised concerns within the community, as friends and family of Holland begin to mourn his death. Meanwhile, officials are working to ensure a transparent and thorough investigation. Authorities have not released further information about the original suspicious activity that led to the call, and it remains unclear what prompted Holland to flee.
Anyone with additional details about the incident is encouraged to contact Virginia State Police. As the investigation continues, many await clarity and answers regarding the moments that led to Holland’s death.
