Loudon Police Shootings: Suspect's Name Released

STERLING, VA — Loudon County authorities have released the name of a man charged with shooting two sheriff's deputies on Christmas Eve in Sterling. The suspect was identified as Douglas V. Johnson Jr., 39, of Sterling. He was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted capital murder.

The two deputies are recovering at an area hospital after they were shot during a domestic-related incident at a Sterling residence, officials say. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report that a man had fought with a family member in the 46000 block of Hollow Mountain Place shortly before 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Deputies began talking with the subject — later identified as Johnson — in an effort to de-escalate and resolve the situation, police say. A few minutes after 5 p.m., Johnson walked upstairs and to the doorway of a bedroom closet. As two deputies attempted to arrest the suspect, police say he made a sudden move into the closet. One deputy used his Taser as the second deputy tried to restrain Johnson, who was able to grab his own handgun and fired at the deputies, striking both officers. With help from a third deputy who was in the house, the three deputies were able to handcuff and secure Johnson.

Authorities say the two injured deputies were taken by ground ambulance to Reston Hospital Center, where they are being treated for serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The names of the injured officers have not been released.

“I am proud of the actions and bravery of our deputies tonight and would like to thank the community for the outpouring of support we have already received. I am glad the deputies are doing well as the situation could have ended much worse,” said Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman in a statement.

Johnson remains in custody at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center without bond.

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