CULPEPER, VA — On Monday, August 4, 2025, at approximately 2:47 PM, a routine traffic stop conducted by a Culpeper County Sheriff’s Deputy resulted in a foot pursuit and a multi-agency manhunt in Orange County, Virginia.
The suspect, Howard V. Settle, a 44-year-old male from Culpeper, was the driver of the vehicle stopped by the deputy. During the course of the traffic stop, it was confirmed that Settle had an active felony warrant for his arrest. Upon realizing his wanted status was known to authorities, Settle exited the vehicle and fled the scene on foot, initiating a widespread search by law enforcement.
Shortly after the escape, citizens alerted authorities that a man matching Settle’s description was attempting to forcibly enter a vehicle at the gas pumps outside E.V. Baker’s Store, located nearby. Witnesses reported that Settle was unsuccessful in commandeering the vehicle and continued fleeing on foot into the open fields behind the store.
Responding quickly, multiple law enforcement agencies converged on the area, including units from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia State Police, local police departments, and K-9 units, in an effort to safely locate and detain the suspect.
After an extensive search and coordinated containment effort, Settle was located and taken into custody without further incident. He was promptly arrested on the existing felony warrant, and his custody was transferred back to the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office, where he remains held pending further legal proceedings.
Statement from the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office
“We are grateful for the swift response and outstanding cooperation from all of our partner agencies, as well as the members of the public who provided timely and helpful information. This collaborative effort allowed us to bring a potentially dangerous situation to a safe and successful resolution,” said a spokesperson for the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office.
Public Safety Reminder
Authorities continue to encourage the public to report suspicious activity and avoid confronting individuals who may be fleeing or involved in law enforcement situations. In this case, public vigilance and cooperation played a key role in the safe apprehension of a fugitive.
The name of the agency representatives, charges associated with the original felony warrant, and any potential new charges stemming from today’s events will be provided in a follow-up release, pending ongoing investigation.
For updates, please follow the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office on official communication channels.
Media Contact:
Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office
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