Spring City Resident Fatally Shot At Dayton ER After He Tries To Take A Deputy’s Gun

DAYTON, TN, (WDEF)-It’s a situation law enforcement officers are trained to handle, but would rather avoid.

23 year old Steven Howell died after officials say he threatened two Rhea County Sheriff’s deputies at Rhea Medical Center just before 3 am Friday.

Sheriff Rocky Potter said,"Causing a problem inside the treatment room, a scuffle ensued a second officer entered the room, a weapon was drawn he was able to take a weapon from the officer and their was a struggle for the weapon"

The Sheriff would not confirm how many shots the second deputy fired while acting in self defense after Howell was described by investigators as being aggressive and belligerent.

"Protocol they have been interviewed by the TBI at this time. They are on paid administrative leave until the investigation is completed."

Howell a certified truck driver and former Budweiser employee from Spring City has faced several previous charges for theft, domestic assault, and drugs and spent time in prison.

Neighbors say he lived and dated a girl for a time at this trailer off Muddy Creek Rd in Spring City.

Many from the community are in complete shock over the sudden shooting.

Tiffany Yates, Concerned Citizen,"When it comes to defending yourself and you know I am a mom, I would defend my kids and myself before but its just crazy"

Hospital management say their staff are moving forward after what has been a trying morning here in Rhea County.

Ken Croom, CEO Rhea Medical Center,"You know we are very proud of our staff, thankful for them, an unfortunate incident but we are trying to find our way through it"

The TBI is officially handling the shooting investigation.