Suspect in attack on Strasburg resident dies

Strasburg Police Chief Tim Sutherly reports this morning that a suspect in an attack on a local resident has died and that a police officer has been placed on paid administrative leave.

Here is the release issued this morning:

At approximately 2:38 AM, dispatch received a 911 call from 941 E. Washington St., Angela Ladd advised that she was there with her two boys 19 and 12 years of age and her ex-boyfriend was on her back porch attempting to make entry.

Ms. Ladd was called earlier by the ex-boyfriend's family and warned that he may be on the way to her residence.

At 2:40 AM an officer arrived; the officer approached the front door, where a struggle was taking place inside between the caller and suspect that was blocking the door. The officer went to the back door that had been forced open. The officer entered hearing the victim screaming for help.

According to reports, the victim was on the floor and suspect was on top of her wielding a knife. Unable to use his weapon due to the proximity of the victim, a struggle between suspect and officer ensued until the suspect was detained.

The suspect Donald G. Beaty, 41 years of age, of 941 Catlett Mountain Rd., Front Royal, was transported to Winchester Medical Center by Shenandoah County Fire and Rescue for a chest wound from a knife. The officer and victim did not receive injuries that required medical attention.

Winchester Medical Center pronounced the Donald G. Beaty dead.

Per policy, at the request of the Strasburg Police Department, Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations is investigating the incident and the officer involved will be placed on paid administrative leave.

Chief Tim Sutherly
Strasburg Police Department