A man was shot twice by Morgan County detectives during a standoff that occurred around noon on Thursday, according to District Attorney General Russell Johnson. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is now examining the events surrounding the shooting.
Officials responded to a call at 224 CCC Rd. near Highway 62, where 48-year-old Michael Blalock was reportedly armed with a gun. WVLT reported that Blalock is believed to have fired first, leading to at least one detective returning fire. Following the incident, Blalock was airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center by Life Star, where he is expected to survive the injuries sustained.
991 The Sports Animal's coverage further details that the confrontation came as a result of a domestic incident that had occurred prior to the detectives' arrival. Blalock is now facing several charges connected to that initial domestic dispute and additional charges related to the exchange of gunfire with law enforcement.
According to the ongoing investigation, deputies located Blalock in a wooded area close to the reported address, where he displayed and discharged his weapon. In a statement obtained by WATE, the TBI clarified that at least one deputy returned fire, subsequently injuring Blalock. Neither of the detectives involved in the shooting was harmed. Blalock’s charges for domestic assault stem from the initial dispatch call, but it is expected that he may face additional charges as the TBI finalizes its review of the deputy-involved shooting.
The TBI is actively working to piece together the exact sequence of events that led up to the shooting, with a comprehensive report to be presented to DA Johnson's office. The findings will assist in determining whether the actions of the deputies were within legal bounds. WVLT notes that the investigation by the TBI is routine in officer-involved shootings to ensure transparency and accountability within law enforcement operations.
