AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. — The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Andrew “AJ” Wayne Mitts Jr., a senior at Buffalo Gap High School, who was killed Wednesday evening in a shooting in the Maple Leaf Drive area of Staunton.
According to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at approximately 7:46 p.m. on February 18, 2026, for reports of a shooting. While en route, dispatchers were informed that two individuals at the scene had suffered gunshot wounds.
When deputies arrived, they immediately began life-saving measures. One victim, a 19-year-old male, was transported to a nearby landing zone and airlifted to the University of Virginia Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
Andrew “AJ” Mitts Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for examination.
Investigators said numerous firearms were recovered at the scene. Authorities believe the incident was isolated and connected to the illegal sale of handguns. No arrests have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
AJ’s sudden passing has left his family, classmates and the Buffalo Gap High School community devastated. At just 18 years old, he was nearing graduation and preparing for the next chapter of his life. Friends and loved ones are remembering him as a young man whose life ended far too soon.
The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to contact investigators at 540-245-5333.
As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to grieve and support AJ’s family during this unimaginable loss.
