“On July 18, 2022 at approximately 5:55PM, the Spotsylvania County Emergency Communications Center received a call for a domestic disturbance involving the caller’s adult son who was armed with a weapon. The suspect made death threats against a family member who was at the home. The first arriving Deputy approached the residence and spotted the suspect run to the rear of the home where family members were standing outside. As the Deputy approached the rear of the home, the male suspect charged at the Deputy with a 33-inch Spartan Warrior-style sword. During this encounter the Deputy attempted to tactically relocate, however the suspect quickly closed his distances forcing the Deputy to discharge his firearm at the suspect striking him multiple times.”

“The Deputy, who is a six-year veteran holding the rank of Deputy First Class immediately rendered first aid to the suspect until medical personnel arrived. The suspect was flown by medevac to an area trauma center for medical treatment and is listed in stable condition. Nicholas Gene Howell, twenty-seven years of age from Spotsylvania was charged with Attempted Malicious Wounding of a Law Enforcement Officer. The unnamed Deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave according to department policy pending the investigation. The case is ongoing and additional charges may be sought at the conclusion of the investigation,” says the Spotsylvania County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office in a Facebook post describing the Spartan Warrior sword incident.