A Knoxville community is rallying behind Knox County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Dalton Swanger, who remains in critical condition following an attack over the weekend. Deputy Swanger was struck with a large rock or brick while responding to a 911 call reporting gunshots near the 7800 block of Stanley Road, according to official reports. The incident occurred just before 10:15 p.m. last Saturday.
The suspect, 44-year-old Christpher Michael Hensley of Powell, has been charged with attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault on a first responder, along with other charges related to weapons and controlled substances. He is currently held on a $2 million bond. Sheriff Tom Spangler, speaking to the gravity of the situation, was quoted as saying, "Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Swanger and his family during this challenging time," as per WBIR.
Court records detailed that Hensley engaged in a confrontation with deputies in a wooded area behind the home they were investigating. He was accused of yelling, cursing, and proceeding to throw rocks at the deputies. Deputy Kirchner also sustained injuries and lacerations in the attack. A subsequent search of Hensley’s home on Boulder Point Lane revealed a rifle with .308 ammunition, other ammunition types, and a significant number of marijuana plants both inside and outside the residence.
The Knox County community has gathered support around Deputy Swanger, with a GoFundMe page being set up to help alleviate his mounting medical and rehabilitation costs. As of yesterday, KCSO confirmed that Deputy Swanger was still in the Intensive Care Unit. Hensley’s bond hearing has been scheduled for tomorrow morning, where he will face multiple charges. "I am at the hospital with Deputy Swanger and asking our community to do what they do best, pray!" Sheriff Spangler further expressed to the community, as per a WVLT report.
