Lynchburg, October 7, 2025
News Summary
Michael C. Chewning, 40, from Lynchburg, faces three counts of attempted capital murder following a police chase on Interstate 81. The incident began with a traffic stop that escalated into a dangerous pursuit involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Chewning attempted to collide with patrol cruisers and was later apprehended with narcotics in his possession.
Lynchburg – Michael C. Chewning, a 40-year-old man from Lynchburg, has been charged with three counts of attempted capital murder following a police chase on Interstate 81 early in the morning on October 6. The incident originated when law enforcement attempted to stop Chewning for a traffic violation around 1 a.m. near Exit 13 in Abingdon, Virginia.
As a sheriff’s deputy activated the lights and sirens, Chewning accelerated and fled, prompting a police pursuit. Throughout the chase, Chewning exhibited aggressive behavior, reportedly swerving toward patrol cruisers in multiple attempts to collide with the officers. Notably, during the chase, he drove directly at a deputy who was deploying spike strips to disable his vehicle.
The pursuit escalated as additional units from the Virginia State Police and the Bristol Police Department joined in. The chase continued into the Gate City Highway area, where Chewning exited the interstate onto Reedy Creek Road and turned onto Miller Hill Road. He eventually crossed back over the Gate City Highway, leading to a gravel lot adjacent to Beech Grove United Methodist Church.
After abandoning the U-Haul truck, Chewning fled the scene on foot. Washington County K-9 Rybar was deployed and successfully apprehended him shortly thereafter. During the search following his arrest, it was discovered that Chewning had possession of narcotics at the time. Furthermore, authorities found he had active warrants from both Nelson County and Appomattox County, Virginia.
Following his apprehension, Chewning was taken to the magistrate’s office, where he was served with outstanding warrants. In addition to the charges of attempted capital murder, he was charged with felony eluding and possession of Schedule I or II narcotics. Chewning is currently being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.
Overview of Charges and Incident
- Individual Charged: Michael C. Chewning
- Age: 40
- Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
- Date of Incident: October 6, 2023
- Charges: Three counts of attempted capital murder, felony eluding, possession of Schedule I or II narcotics
Background Context
This pursuit came after Chewning failed to comply with a routine traffic stop, escalating into a dangerous chase that could have resulted in severe consequences for the officers involved and bystanders. The response from law enforcement highlighted the collaborative effort between various police units to apprehend a potentially dangerous individual. Chewning’s aggressive tactics during the chase are under investigation, as the authorities evaluate the full scope of the events that transpired.
Conclusion
The case against Michael C. Chewning underscores the complexities surrounding encounters between law enforcement and individuals sought for violations. As he awaits trial, the legal proceedings will outline further details concerning the incident and Chewning’s actions preceding and during the chase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michael C. Chewning?
Michael C. Chewning is a 40-year-old man from Lynchburg, Virginia, who has been charged with three counts of attempted capital murder.
What led to the charges against Chewning?
The charges stemmed from a pursuit on Interstate 81 after Chewning failed to stop for a traffic violation around 1 a.m. on October 6.
What actions did Chewning take during the police chase?
During the pursuit, Chewning attempted to collide with patrol cruisers, swerved toward officers multiple times, and drove toward a deputy deploying spike strips.
How was Chewning apprehended?
Chewning fled the U-Haul truck on foot after abandoning it but was apprehended by Washington County K-9 Rybar shortly thereafter.
Was Chewning wanted for other offenses?
Yes, Chewning had active warrants from Nelson County and Appomattox County, Virginia, at the time of his arrest.
What is Chewning’s current legal status?
Chewning is currently being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Time of Incident | 1 a.m., October 6, 2023 |
| Location | Interstate 81, near Exit 13, Abingdon, Virginia |
| Initial Cause | Failed to stop for a traffic violation |
| Charges | Three counts of attempted capital murder, felony eluding, possession of Schedule I or II narcotics |
| Law Enforcement Involved | Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia State Police, Bristol Police Department |
| Current Status | Held without bond at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WJHL News
- Wikipedia: Interstate 81
- WCYB News
- Google Search: Michael C Chewning
- WSET News
- Google Scholar: law enforcement pursuit
- WDBJ7 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: police pursuit
- WSET Local News
- Google News: Lynchburg Virginia crime
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.
