Lynchburg, Virginia, October 7, 2025
News Summary
A 40-year-old man from Lynchburg, Michael C. Chewning, is facing serious charges, including attempted capital murder, after leading deputies on a high-speed chase on Interstate 81. The dangerous pursuit started when a deputy attempted to stop Chewning’s U-Haul truck for a traffic violation. After several near misses with officers and a foot chase, Chewning was apprehended with the help of a K-9 unit. He was found in possession of narcotics and has active warrants from multiple counties.
Lynchburg, Virginia – A 40-year-old man from Lynchburg faces serious charges, including attempted capital murder, following a tense high-speed chase early Monday morning on Interstate 81. The incident began around 1 a.m. near Exit 13 in Abingdon, Washington County, Virginia.
The chase initiated when a deputy noticed a U-Haul truck committing a traffic infraction and attempted a traffic stop. The driver, identified as Michael C. Chewning, refused to comply, choosing instead to accelerate and flee southbound on Interstate 81. The pursuit took a dangerous turn as Chewning swerved the vehicle towards officers on multiple occasions, even aiming directly at a deputy who was deploying spike strips on the road.
As the situation escalated, additional law enforcement units from Virginia State Police and the Bristol, Virginia Police Department joined the chase. The pursuit continued off the interstate onto various roads, including Gate City Highway, Reedy Creek Road, and Miller Hill Road. Chewning finally exited onto a gravel lot adjacent to Beech Grove United Methodist Church.
After abandoning the vehicle, Chewning fled on foot but was quickly apprehended with the assistance of a Washington County K-9 named Rybar. A subsequent search discovered that Chewning was in possession of Schedule I or II narcotics. Additionally, authorities found that he had active warrants from both Nelson County and Appomattox County in Virginia.
As a result of this incident, Chewning was charged with attempted capital murder, felony eluding, and possession of Schedule I or II narcotics. He is currently being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.
Background Context
High-speed chases pose significant risks to both law enforcement and the public, often leading to dangerous situations like the one involving Michael C. Chewning. The involvement of K-9 units in apprehending fleeing suspects has become a common practice, enhancing police efficiency in tracking and capturing individuals who attempt to evade arrest.
In recent years, incidents of attempted capital murder during the pursuit of suspects have drawn attention to law enforcement practices and the potential for escalation in high-pressure situations. The charges against Chewning highlight ongoing concerns regarding public safety and criminal behavior within Virginia and beyond.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Time | 1 a.m. on Monday morning |
| Location | Near Exit 13, Interstate 81, Abingdon, Washington County, Virginia |
| Chase Initiator | Deputy attempting traffic stop |
| Driver | Michael C. Chewning, 40, Lynchburg |
| Charges | Attempted capital murder, felony eluding, possession of Schedule I or II narcotics |
| Custody Status | Held without bond at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail |
FAQ Section
What charges has Michael C. Chewning faced?
Chewning has been charged with attempted capital murder, felony eluding, and possession of Schedule I or II narcotics.
When and where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred early Monday morning, around 1 a.m., near Exit 13 in Abingdon, Washington County, Virginia.
What initiated the police chase?
A deputy attempted a traffic stop on Chewning’s U-Haul truck for a traffic infraction, but he refused to stop, leading to a pursuit.
How was Chewning apprehended?
After fleeing on foot, Chewning was apprehended by Washington County K-9 Rybar.
What was discovered during the search of Chewning?
A search revealed that Chewning possessed Schedule I or II narcotics.
What is Chewning’s current custody situation?
Chewning is currently held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.
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Additional Resources
- Supertalk 929: Swerving Driver Accused of Attempted Murder
- Wikipedia: Attempted Murder
- WCYB: Man Charged with Attempted Murder
- Google Search: Michael C. Chewning
- WJHL: Sheriff – Man Charged with Attempted Murder
- Google Scholar: High-speed Chases
- WDBJ7: Lynchburg Man Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement Practices
- WCYB: Man Arrested in Smyth County
- Google News: Interstate 81 Chase
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
