Trooper Michael Todd Blanton

Trooper Michael Todd Blanton

Virginia State Police, Virginia

End of Watch Wednesday, January 29, 2003

Add to My Heroes

Michael Todd Blanton

Trooper Michael Blanton was killed after stopping a driver suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol on the Gaskins Road exit ramp from I-64.

He was reaching inside the suspect's car when the driver sped off, dragging him for several hundred yards before crashing. The car rolled over, pinning Trooper Blanton underneath. Trooper Blanton was transported to MCV Hospital, where he later died.

The suspect was apprehended a short time later by Henrico County police officers, who found him running on a nearby road. The suspect was charged with capital murder, felony hit-and-run, and other charges.

On September 27, 2003, the suspect was convicted of second-degree murder and eluding a police officer but was acquitted of abduction. He was sentenced to 56 years in prison.

Trooper Blanton was a United States Air Force veteran who served with the Virginia State Police for five years and previously served with the Henrico County Sheriff's Department for two years. He is survived by his wife and 6-year-old son.

Bio

  • Age 29
  • Tour 11 years
  • Badge 971
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Sentenced to 56 years

Impaired Driver, traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

View all 220 Reflections

Not a day goes by that you don't cross my mind. How has 21yrs gone by so quickly? Miss you brother.

Todd Talbott
USAF (Retired)

January 29, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.