Four deputies put on leave during investigation of suspect shooting Sunday night

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has put four deputies on paid leave following the shooting of a suspect Sunday night.

Tyler Roberts was being chased after his girlfriend in Ringgold accused him of kidnapping their 18-month old child.

Catoosa County authorities say he ran into an officer while making his escape.

The chase ended at the Ooltewah exit of I 75 with a shootout in which two officers were injured and Roberts was killed.

Putting the officers on leave is routine when they are involved in shooting a suspect.

In fact, Sheriff Garrett called them heroes.

“After being with my deputies Sunday night both at the scene and at the hospital, it is apparent it is by God’s grace these two deputies are alive and were not more seriously injured despite being shot during this tragic incident. I am also incredibly grateful the small child involved in this incident was not seriously harmed. These four deputies, acting with courage and without hesitation, saved the life of this young child and had they not intervened and stopped this suspect, there is no telling how this situation may have ended. These deputies are heroes – Plain and simple. I am humbled and proud to serve alongside them and all the brave men and women of the HCSO,” stated Sheriff Austin Garrett.

The officers are:

Deputy Jorge Araiza
Deputy Alfred Girardot
Deputy Andrew Pierson
Deputy Jake Thomas
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation will look into the shooting for the District Attorney’s Office.