McMinn deputy involved in a gunfight, suspect now in custody
MCMINN COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Authorities have arrested a McMinn County man after engaging in a gunfire with a deputy Monday evening.
On July 28, 2025, around 8:00 p.m., a McMinn County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputy was at a local store when he was approached by a citizen.
The citizen told the deputy that a Stephen Goins was at his residence recklessly shooting a firearm at random things.
The deputy responded to the residence and found Goins on the opposite sit of a maroon Chevrolet Tahoe.
According to Sheriff Joe Guy, the deputy announced himself several times, but that didn’t stop Goins from pointing and shooting a silver revolver at the deputy.
The deputy fired back in self-defense, and Goins retreated into the residence.
After a brief standoff, Goins was taken into custody and transported to the McMinn County Jail.
He is being charged with the following:
- Attempted First Degree Murder
- Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Dangerous Felony
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Resisting Stop, Halt, Frisk, or Arrest
“This is yet another example of the dangers our officers face every day. There were several shootings involving officers across the country yesterday, but we are fortunate that this one ended without injury to anyone. Criminals need to know: if you shoot at one of our officers, we will shoot back.”
-Sheriff Joe Guy
