A McMinn County deputy, identified as Corporal Nathan Stiles, was involved in a gunfire exchange with a suspect yesterday evening in what the sheriff described as a close call that thankfully resulted in no injuries. Sheriff Joe Guy reported that the incident occurred around 8 p.m., after a local resident alerted Corporal Stiles at a Dollar General in Riceville about a man firing a gun outside his house and appearing disturbed, as detailed by WBIR.
Upon arriving at the scene on Highway 11, Stiles was confronted by the suspect, 44-year-old Stephen Goins, who, after being repeatedly identified by law enforcement, aimed a silver revolver at the corporal and discharged his weapon. "Corporal Stiles announced several times that he was with the sheriff’s office, but nevertheless, Goins pointed a silver revolver at him and fired at my officer. Corporal Stiles then retreated and fired back at Goins in self-defense as Goins fled into the residence," Sheriff Guy stated to WVLT. Additional deputies arrived shortly after, culminating in a stand-off and subsequent arrest of Goins without further incident.
Goins is now facing a slew of charges, including attempted first-degree murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, felon in possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest. The sheriff's office highlights this confrontation as a stark reminder of the hazards law enforcement officers face. "This is yet another example of the dangers our officers face every day," Sheriff Guy told WATE, echoing sentiments about similar events involving police across the nation.
The incident comes amidst a broader national conversation on police safety and gun violence. Echoing a firm stance, Sheriff Guy remarked via WATE, "Criminals need to know: if you shoot at one of our officers, we will shoot back." The matter is currently under investigation, and as the McMinn County community processes the event, Goins remains in custody at the McMinn County Jail.
