Anthony Cupec Obituary, Death – Authorities in Lynchburg have identified the person who lost his life following a tragic incident that occurred on Wednesday night. The Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) reported that officers were called to the area of Pierce Street and 12th Street around 8:59 p.m. after receiving reports of what appeared to be gunfire.
When officers arrived, they discovered that an argument had taken place between two individuals on the street. During the confrontation, one of the individuals reportedly used a firearm, resulting in another person being seriously injured. Emergency responders from the Lynchburg Fire Department arrived quickly and transported the injured man to Lynchburg General Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The victim has been identified as 45-year-old Anthony Cupec. Police extended their condolences to his family and friends, expressing sympathy for their loss.
Following the incident, the suspect, identified as 43-year-old Larry Kersey, reportedly left the scene in a dark-colored sedan with black wheels. Witnesses told investigators that the vehicle was last seen heading toward 13th Street from Pierce Street. Overnight, police began an intensive search to locate the suspect and the vehicle believed to be involved.
By early Thursday morning, officers located Kersey in the 5000 block of White Oak Drive. According to officials, he was taken into custody peacefully and without any further incident. The vehicle believed to have been used in his departure has also been recovered and is now in police custody for examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have stated that Kersey is facing several charges, including serious felony counts related to the incident. The case remains under active investigation, with detectives gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to piece together a full picture of what led to the confrontation.
The Lynchburg Police Department expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance in providing information that helped locate the suspect so quickly. They continue to urge anyone who may have additional details, video footage, or firsthand knowledge of the event to come forward. Community cooperation, police noted, is a vital part of ensuring justice and maintaining safety in the city.
Detectives encourage anyone with information to contact Detective Donellan at (434) 473-1704 or to reach out to Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through the P3 app or by texting CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to an online tip form. Authorities assure the public that all information shared will be handled with discretion as the investigation continues.
Police Chief Ryan Zuidema and other officials have also used the opportunity to remind residents about the importance of resolving disagreements peacefully and seeking help before conflicts escalate. They emphasized that any loss of life deeply affects the entire community and that efforts to promote dialogue, understanding, and nonviolent conflict resolution remain a top priority.
The area around Pierce and 12th Streets was temporarily closed following the incident as investigators collected evidence and documented the scene. Forensic teams examined the area for ballistic evidence and other materials that might provide clues about what occurred. The roadways have since been reopened, and normal traffic flow has resumed.
As the investigation moves forward, police have reassured residents that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. The suspect is in custody, and law enforcement continues to work diligently to bring closure to the case.
The Lynchburg Police Department concluded its statement by expressing heartfelt condolences to the family of Anthony Cupec, acknowledging the profound loss they are facing. The department reaffirmed its commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the event and ensuring accountability through the proper legal process.
