HCSO detective dragged behind suspect car on Highway 58

HCSO Investigative Services Captain Mark Hooper and Public Relations Manager Matt Lea speak with Sheriff Austin Garrett at the scene. HCSO

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — A narcotics investigation in Hamilton County resulted in a detective being dragged behind the suspect’s car and the suspect crashing shortly thereafter.

HCSO narcotics detectives were originally investigating a narcotics distribution and made a stop on Highway 58 shortly before 11 a.m.

When stopped on the 5500 block of Highway 58, authorities directed a suspect in this case to leave his car. However, he refused and attempted to flee.

While fleeing, a HCSO detective, who was attempting to get the suspect out of the car, was dragged through the parking lot. The sheriff’s office said that detective received only minor injuries and was taken to a hospital.

Other HCSO deputies pursued the suspect vehicle. The suspect then lost control and crashed on Highway 58. At that time, authorities took him into custody.

The sheriff’s office said it is not identifying the suspect at this time. He was also taken to a hospital for medical evaluation.

Also during the incident, one detective fired a gun, but no one was injured.

Sheriff Austin Garrett made this statement on the incident:

“It is important to note, this is what your HCSO detectives and deputies do every day in this county. They put their lives on the line and work diligently to irradicate this poison that is being pushed and sold on the streets of Hamilton County and the City of Chattanooga.

While it is early in the investigative phase of this incident, it is apparent this suspect was intent on getting away from authorities and clearly didn’t care who he endangered in the process. I am grateful my detective is safe and only sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

This incident highlights the incredible dangers our personnel face each day while performing their duties. I am honored to serve alongside the brave men and women of the HCSO as they protect and serve our community working to keep you safe.”

The sheriff’s office said it is still investigating.