Christopher BergSullivan County, TN – Sullivan County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Hinkle is in serious condition after he was shot Saturday morning.
There have been widespread reports of the deputy’s death on social media, but the deputy remains hospitalized.
The incident started as a request for a welfare check of Jackie Scott Pendergrass off of highway 11W in Bountville, according to WJHL. The details of the reason for the welfare check have not been released.
During the check, the suspect shot Deputy Hinkle, and a long standoff began.
After hours with no response from the suspect, SWAT made entry at around 3 p.m. and located Pendergress dead in his residence.
Deputy Hinkle is a 27 year veteran of the department. Sheriff Jeff Cassidy has asked for everyone’s prayers for his recovery.
The motive for the shooting has not been released at this time.
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