Morning coffee at a Jefferson City market nearly turned into a crime scene Tuesday, until a passing tow truck driver dropped everything and tackled a woman swinging a large knife. The deli worker she targeted walked away with only superficial wounds, and a 61-year-old woman ended the morning in handcuffs instead of in a checkout line.
How the Rescue Unfolded
Jefferson City police said officers were called to Lakeview Market off W. Andrew Johnson Highway around 6:18 a.m. for an assault in progress. According to investigators, 61-year-old Elizabeth Ann Scott walked into the store with a large knife, threatened a clerk, then moved on to attack another employee in the deli area. Patrons helped restrain Scott until officers arrived. Police took her into custody and said the employee’s injuries were not serious, according to WVLT.
Tow Driver Stepped In
TNT Towing owner Tony Cate told WATE he disarmed the woman and held her down on the floor until officers could get there. Cate insisted he is "not a hero," saying he simply reacted and plans to keep stopping by the market on his usual morning runs. Police later charged Scott with attempted first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault, according to the station.
Worker’s Account and Aftermath
Deli manager Christie Sims told WATE she grabbed the attacker’s arms and pinned her to keep the knife from cutting her, and said she feels she owes Cate for stepping in when he did. Customers joined in to help restrain the suspect until police arrived, and staff evacuated the store once the immediate danger had passed. Officials said Scott was then taken to the Jefferson County Justice Center.
Charges and Next Steps
Jefferson City police booked Elizabeth Ann Scott into the Jefferson County Justice Center on charges of attempted first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault. Investigators asked anyone with additional information to contact Detective Sergeant Keith Bunch at 865-475-2002. The department also posted about the arrest on social media, the station reported, and more details were still being gathered by investigators, according to WVLT.
