VIRGINIA — Authorities have confirmed the death of Michael Woodson, 56, of Midlothian, after he was fatally shot by law enforcement officers following a high-speed chase across Amelia and Nottoway counties.

The pursuit began early Saturday morning, August 16, when a Virginia State Trooper attempted to pull over Woodson’s pickup truck on Route 360 in Amelia County for displaying fictitious license plates. Woodson allegedly fled at speeds exceeding 100 mph, prompting an Amelia County sheriff’s deputy to join the chase. The pursuit ended when Woodson lost control of the truck at Rocky Hill Road and Route 460 in Nottoway County, crashing into a wooded area.

After abandoning the vehicle, Woodson reportedly brandished a firearm while attempting to flee on foot. Officers fired at Woodson, who was pronounced dead at the scene. A Nottoway County deputy sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the hand during the incident.

The Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation, reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses to piece together the full events. Officials have not confirmed whether Woodson fired his weapon.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.