MADISON HEIGHTS, Va. (BTW21) – A Madison Heights man previously in the spotlight for opening fire on law enforcement during a tense standoff has now been indicted for second-degree murder, officials confirmed.
The suspect, Thomas Ericson, was the subject of a welfare check back in September 2024, which turned into a volatile situation when deputies arrived at his residence. According to the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office, Ericson barricaded himself inside his home and was heavily armed.
Shortly after their arrival, Ericson opened fire on deputies. Despite the chaos, no officers were injured.
The standoff rattled the peaceful community. Walter Large, a nearby resident, said he and his son took cover during the incident. “We were actually sitting on the front porch when it all started,” he said. His son, Dakota Large, added, “It was definitely scary… I never thought I’d have to experience anything like that.”
Dakota also mentioned knowing Ericson personally and attempting to check on him before police arrived. “We had been banging on his door. Our neighbor Daniel was too. We didn’t know he was armed.”
Once authorities entered the home, they discovered the body of 58-year-old Brian Leisenring. Investigators believe Leisenring had been dead for some time prior to the arrival of law enforcement.
Ericson is now formally indicted for second-degree murder in connection to Leisenring’s death. According to court documents, investigators are still working to uncover the full timeline and motive behind the deadly event.
The case remains under active investigation, with more details expected as proceedings continue.
