Mayor Madeline Rogero and Police Chief David Rausch awarded the Purple Heart to Knoxville Police Department Officer Jay Williams. Williams has been with KPD since November 2003.
On January 11, 2018, Officer Williams attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle when the driver fired one time at Officer Williams. The suspect continued to flee until he lost control of his vehicle as it ran off the road on Washington Pike. After Officer Williams exited his vehicle the suspect fired again striking Williams once in the shoulder. The suspect was able to free his vehicle and continue to flee the scene. Williams was transported to UT Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries.
On January 13, 2018, the suspect was found hiding in an abandoned house in Blount County by members of the Blount County Sheriff’s Office and deputies from the U.S. Marshals Service Smoky Mountain Fugitive Task Force.
Officer Williams has returned to work full time.