Virginia state trooper shot, killed while serving warrant outside Richmond, authorities say

FARMVILLE, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - Virginia State Police say a trooper was shot and killed while serving a search warrant Monday night near a small town about an hour outside of Richmond.

Officials say Trooper Lucas B. Dowell and other members of a tactical team were assisting a drug and gang task force in serving a warrant at a home near Farmville, Virginia around 10 p.m.

When the tactical team entered the residence, authorities say a man inside began shooting at them. Dowell was struck by gunfire and transported to a hospital where he later died. Officers returned fire killing the gunman, police say.

Dowell was a Virginia native and began his career with the Virginia State Police after his graduation from Basic Session in 2014. He was a member of the Appomattox Division Tactical Team which is the equivalent of a SWAT Team, a release from police said. He is survived by his parents and a sister.

"This is an extremely difficult day for the State Police," said Virginia State Police Superintendent Colonel Gary T. Settle in a released statement. "We are humbled by Lucas’ selfless sacrifice and grateful for his dedicated service to the Commonwealth. He will forever be remembered by his State Police Family for his great strength of character, tenacity, valor, loyalty and sense of humor."

No other troopers were injured during the incident.