Spotsylvania County, Virginia – A tragic double shooting in Spotsylvania County has left one person dead and another injured, prompting a swift investigation by the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of May 3, 2025, involved a reported residential burglary in progress that escalated into violence, leaving one victim dead and two others affected. The sheriff’s office has since arrested 27-year-old Tyler Chase Butler in connection with the incident.

The Incident: A Deadly Encounter on McKenzie Lane

According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), deputies were dispatched to the scene around 3 a.m. on May 3, after receiving a 911 call reporting shots fired during a residential burglary in progress. The incident took place in the McKenzie Lane area, a residential neighborhood in Spotsylvania County, which is located about 50 miles south of Washington, D.C..

Upon arriving at the scene, deputies discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds, while a third person was unharmed. The shooting had already left a tragic mark on the community, and the investigation began almost immediately.

Victims Identified: A Fatality and Injuries

18-year-old Michael Bosworth Jr., the primary victim of the shooting, was quickly transported to an area hospital. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Bosworth succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. His death has left family, friends, and the local community in shock, as Bosworth was still in the early stages of his life.

The second victim, who was a juvenile, sustained injuries from the gunfire but fortunately survived the attack. The juvenile victim received medical treatment and was released after being stabilized. The third individual, also a juvenile, was reportedly unharmed during the incident.

The nature of the shooting and its aftermath have led to a heightened sense of concern in the local community, especially given the relatively quiet nature of the area. With one individual dead and another injured, residents of Spotsylvania County are now grappling with the violence that has shaken their otherwise peaceful neighborhood.

The Arrest: Tyler Chase Butler in Custody

Following a thorough investigation, which involved interviews with witnesses, forensic evidence collection, and the examination of the crime scene, the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office arrested 27-year-old Tyler Chase Butler on May 6, 2025, in connection with the shooting. Butler was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond. He faces multiple charges, including:

• Felony Murder (Second Degree)

• Malicious Wounding

• Two Counts of Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony

The charges reflect the severity of the situation. Felony murder charges are especially serious, as they carry a possible sentence of life imprisonment or significant time in prison if convicted. The charges of malicious wounding and use of a firearm are tied to the injuries sustained by the juvenile victims and the involvement of a firearm in the commission of the crime.

As of now, Butler has not provided a clear explanation for his actions, and the investigation continues. However, the charges indicate that Butler’s actions were intentional and aimed at causing significant harm. The nature of the charges has sparked questions about the motive behind the shooting.

The Context: What Led to the Shooting?

While the exact motives behind the shooting remain unclear, initial reports suggest that the shooting was linked to a residential burglary. The fact that the sheriff’s office responded to a call regarding a burglary in progress implies that Butler may have been involved in an attempt to burglarize a home. The details of how the situation escalated into a deadly confrontation, however, are still under investigation.

In many cases of violent crime involving firearms, there is often an underlying motive, such as a dispute between individuals, a prior history of conflict, or the commission of another crime, such as robbery or drug-related activities. Investigators are working to determine whether the shooting was a result of an ongoing personal dispute between the victims and Butler or whether it was a random act of violence.

The investigation will likely focus on Butler’s relationship with the victims, especially whether they knew each other prior to the incident. Given the residential burglary angle, investigators are also looking into the possibility that the shooting was part of a larger crime spree or a situation that escalated unexpectedly.

The Legal Implications: Serious Charges and Potential Consequences

The charges against Tyler Chase Butler are severe, and if convicted, he could face a significant amount of prison time. Felony murder charges, particularly when connected to a deadly shooting, are among the most serious offenses in the state of Virginia. A conviction for second-degree felony murder could result in life imprisonment, depending on the judge’s discretion and any potential plea deals.

In addition to the felony murder charge, Butler faces malicious wounding charges. This charge indicates that Butler intentionally inflicted harm on the juvenile victims, even though they survived the attack. Malicious wounding is a felony in Virginia, and a conviction could result in a lengthy prison sentence.

The firearm charges—specifically use of a firearm in the commission of a felony—add further weight to the case. Virginia law mandates that individuals convicted of using a firearm in the commission of a felony face an additional five years in prison for each firearm involved in the crime. These charges could make a conviction even more costly for Butler.

Given the gravity of the charges, it is expected that Butler’s defense team will carefully evaluate the evidence and work to build a defense case. However, with significant evidence against him, including the reported witnesses and forensic evidence, Butler’s legal team will likely face a tough challenge.

Impact on the Community: A Shocking Crime in a Quiet Area

The Spotsylvania County community has been left reeling by this violent crime. While Spotsylvania is known for its relatively low crime rates, incidents like this remind residents of the potential for violence that can occur even in suburban or rural areas. For many residents, this tragedy highlights the importance of remaining vigilant, even in seemingly quiet neighborhoods.

Local authorities have attempted to reassure the public that such incidents are rare and that steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the community. Sheriff’s deputies have increased patrols in the area, and local law enforcement is working closely with residents to ensure that any potential threats are addressed.

At the same time, the shooting has raised concerns about the availability and use of firearms in violent crimes. The use of firearms in the commission of crimes continues to be a pressing issue across the country, with many communities grappling with how to address the role of guns in everyday violence. Spotsylvania County has seen an uptick in gun-related incidents, which has sparked community discussions about the need for better gun control and safer neighborhoods.

Next Steps: Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the double shooting. Authorities are speaking with witnesses, reviewing evidence from the scene, and analyzing forensic evidence to ensure that all aspects of the case are fully understood. The sheriff’s office is also working with the Virginia State Police and other agencies to gather more information.

As Tyler Chase Butler awaits his trial, the legal process will unfold over the coming months. The Greene County Court will likely hold hearings and pre-trial motions, with a final trial date to be set. Butler’s defense team and the prosecution will present their respective cases, and the evidence will be examined thoroughly.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Accountability

The arrest of Tyler Chase Butler in connection with the double shooting on McKenzie Lane has brought the incident closer to resolution, but the case is far from over. As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock, with many hoping for justice for the victims and their families. The charges against Butler highlight the serious consequences of violent crimes involving firearms and serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability in the criminal justice system.

For Spotsylvania County, this case underscores the need for greater vigilance and safety in the face of escalating violence, even in peaceful communities. While the outcome of the case remains to be seen, the tragedy has prompted important conversations about gun violence, public safety, and how communities can work together to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.