The Knoxville Police Department is on the hunt for a man accused of discharging a firearm during a traffic stop that turned into a chase. The episode occurred after KPD officers pulled over a Land Rover due to a traffic violation on the morning of Wednesday, around 8:45 a.m., near Linden Avenue and Van Gilder Street. As reported by WVLT, the passenger of the vehicle hastily exited and fled on foot, firing a single shot in the process.
In an effort to apprehend the suspect, the police, backed by the AirWatch helicopter unit from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, scoured the area. Despite the deployment of multiple officers in response to the shooting incident, the man has not been captured or identified, according to WATE. Fortuitously, no victims were injured during the firing of the gun, and Knoxville Police officers did not return fire.
Detailed information about the unfolding investigation remains scarce. Nevertheless, the Knoxville Police Homicide Unit has taken the lead on this case, chasing what they consider "strong leads." "No known victims were struck or injured by the gunfire, and officers did not return fire," stated the KPD, per an article by WBIR.
The Knoxville community has been put on alert as the search continues. Residents in the vicinity of Linden Avenue and Van Gilder Street have been advised to report any suspicious activity possibly related to the fugitive's movements. As the investigation proceeds, updates are expected to be provided by KPD. The suspect remains at large as of last reporting.
