Tenn. Deputy Fatally Shot During Domestic Disturbance
Source Officer.com News
A Tennessee sheriff's deputy was shot and killed during a domestic violence call over the weekend.
The fatal shooting happened shortly after 8:30 p.m. when Hardin County deputies and Clifton police officer were called to a home concerning a domestic disturbance, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating the shooting. When the officers reached the scene, they encountered a man—Todd Alan Stricklin— with a handgun and ordered him to drop the firearm.
When Stricklin refused to surrender his gun, Deputy Matthew Locke approached the house. That's when the deputy was shot by Stricklin, who fled on foot into a nearby wooded area and set off a search involving multiple agencies.
Locke was taken to the hospital following the shooting, and he later died from his injuries. Stricklin was apprehended by Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers after a manhunt that lasted a few hours.
"We remember Deputy Locke for his selfless dedication, absolute courage and unparalleled commitment," Sheriff Johnny Alexander said in a statement. "Our country has lost a warrior. Our community has lost a hero. Our department has lost a brother. We will never forget Deputy Locke, and we are all forever in debt for his sacrifice."
Along with his work as a deputy, Locke also was a member of the Tennessee National Guard, according to the sheriff's department.
Stricklin is charged with first-degree murder in the shooting.
