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CROZET, VA — A deadly attack in the parking lot of a Harris Teeter grocery store on Saturday, February 17, 2025, was stopped by an off-duty federal law enforcement officer, preventing what officials say could have been a higher casualty event.
According to the Albemarle County Police Department (ACPD), the attacker arrived at the store’s parking lot and opened fire with an AR-15 rifle. His first victim, 43-year-old Peter L. Martin of Crozet, was shot as he exited the store and was pronounced dead at the scene. The attacker then approached 68-year-old Diane G. Spangler, who was inside her vehicle. Spangler was critically wounded and transported to UVA Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Just 20 seconds into the attack, an off-duty federal law enforcement officer who was exiting the store heard the gunfire and immediately engaged the shooter with their personal weapon. The attacker was shot and pronounced dead at the scene. The officer was uninjured.
ACPD Chief Sean Reeves praised the off-duty officer’s swift and decisive action, stating, “This heroic individual selflessly placed themselves in harm’s way to stop the gunman and prevent further loss of life. Without their brave actions, there’s no doubt the casualty count could have been much higher.”
Investigators are still working to determine a motive for the attack. Police stated that the shooter had prior contact with law enforcement in January 2025 but did not have a criminal history. At this time, there is no confirmed connection between the attacker and his victims.
Authorities have recovered multiple firearms, including the AR-15 used in the attack. Additional weapons were visible in the shooter’s vehicle, and investigators are executing search warrants to determine the exact number of firearms and rounds of ammunition involved.
Law enforcement is asking anyone who was in the area at the time of the shooting and has not yet spoken with investigators to contact Detective Holmes at 434-296-5807 or Crime Stoppers at 434-977-4000.
The Importance of Armed Citizens in Public Spaces
This incident underscores how quickly violent attacks can unfold and the critical role that armed individuals—whether law enforcement or trained citizens—can play in stopping threats. The off-duty federal officer’s ability to act within seconds likely saved lives.
For those who legally carry a firearm, this tragedy highlights the importance of ongoing training, situational awareness, and preparedness. While law enforcement officers and first responders arrive as quickly as possible, violent attacks can happen in an instant, making self-defense skills and a proactive mindset invaluable in protecting oneself and others.
