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Deputy shoots, kills armed and wanted suspect in York Co.

Posted at 8:52 AM, Jun 24, 2015
and last updated 2015-06-24 08:52:25-04

York County, Va. - A York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office deputy shot and killed an armed and wanted suspect Wednesday morning on Ft. Eustis Blvd. in York County, according to the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.

It happened during a traffic accident investigation, officials say. The incident resulted in a confrontation between a deputy sheriff and a suspect armed with a handgun, according to the sheriff's office. Officials say the deputy fired six times at the suspect, who pulled a gun on the deputy.

The suspect has been identified as Damien A. Harrell, a 26-year-old from Newport News. Officials say the suspect was wanted from an incident that happened back in May, and had previous robbery and firearm convictions in Newport News.

Harrell had a .380 caliber Bersa semi-automatic handgun, according to the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.

Harrell was asked several times what his name was, and never gave deputies his real name, NewsChannel 3 has been told. He was transported to Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The investigation has revealed that Harrell was wanted for multiple charges from a neighboring jurisdiction. Charges include unauthorized use of a vehicle; assault;  and failure to appear.

He had an extensive criminal history, according to the sheriff's office. There was also an advisory on his wanted entry to use caution that the suspect was armed and dangerous with violent tendencies.

Sherry Campbell, Harrell's father's fiancé, said she knew about his criminal history, but about nothing recently. "I never saw that side," she said. "It's hard to believe."

Campbell said she was surprised to hear about what happened. "He was a sweetheart. Every time I saw him there was always a smile, a laugh, and a joke with him."

No deputies were injured.

The investigation is ongoing.

Check back on WTKR.com for updates.

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