Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Friday night around 9:30 p.m., Mt. Juliet Police officers responded to an incident at Cedar Creek Marina, at 9120 Saundersville Rd, involving reports of an individual threatening others on the dock.
While officers searched the area for the suspect, they heard gunfire. Officers immediately responded, located an adult male gunshot victim, and moved him to safety so medical aid could be provided and paramedics could access the scene. He was transported by medics to the hospital.
Believing the armed suspect was contained near the end of C-Dock and possibly hiding in one of several boats, the department’s Special Response Team was activated. The search was complicated by frigid temperatures, ice-covered water, and the unique layout of the marina.
During the incident, the suspect fired at officers. Five Mt. Juliet Police officers returned fire. The suspect was later located deceased. A second adult male gunshot victim was also found deceased. No officers were injured.
Many others living aboard boats on the docks, were safely evacuated while officers worked to contain the suspect. Per standard protocol in any officer-involved shooting, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is handling the entirety of the investigation.
Mt. Juliet Police were supported during the response by the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Rehab 23. Their assistance was vital in managing the complex and dangerous situation.
C-Dock and all docks beyond it remain closed while the investigation continues. Officers at the scene are coordinating with residents on when they can return to their boats.
“This was a tragic and complex incident. Our thoughts are with everyone affected as we begin to understand the full impact of what occurred. I’m incredibly proud of our officers, who faced an extremely dangerous situation with courage and commitment. They moved quickly to rescue a victim, evacuated residents, and worked to contain an armed threat in freezing, hazardous conditions. I’m also deeply thankful that none of our officers were hurt. The support from our law enforcement partners was tremendous as they stood with us through a long and difficult night.” – Chief Tyler Chandler
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