The Shelby County community continues to rally support for Sergeant Samuel C. Lilley after he was critically injured in a motorcycle crash in Lakeland, according to reports from local news outlets. Sergeant Lilley, assigned to the motorcycle unit of the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, is currently in a medically induced coma and on life support at Regional One Health following the accident last Tuesday, as reported by WREG.
While en route to another deputy-involved crash site, Sgt. Lilley's motorcycle was hit by a vehicle, marking the second such incident that morning on Highway 64 in Lakeland. Tennessee Highway Patrol investigators have cited the involved drivers—one for failure to exercise due care and the other for failure to yield the right of way—which resulted in the chain of events that led to Lilley's current critical state. The community's response to a GoFundMe page set up for Lilley reflects the breadth of concern and compassion, as it has raised nearly $35,000.
In a public plea for support, Sheriff Floyd Bonner expressed his gratitude for the community's actions, stating, "I encourage the community to keep this brave deputy in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time," with his words being reported by both Local Memphis and FOX13. The outpouring of support includes messages and donations from fellow deputies and residents, an affirmation of Bonner’s amazement at the love and support from the sheriff's office and the citizens of Shelby County.
The second deputy involved in the initial crash suffered non-critical injuries, described by SCSO Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner as "bumps and bruises but nothing broken." The deputy remains unnamed at this time, but the focus remains intently on Sergeant Lilley's fight for recovery, as the community holds onto hope and continues its support during what Sheriff Bonner calls "this challenging time," as noted by FOX 13.
