A manhunt is underway in Sumner County, Tennessee for a suspect considered “armed and dangerous” after the fatal shooting of a deputy. The shooting occurred during a traffic stop, and the suspect is now wanted for first-degree murder.
Deputy Sheriff Joshua L. Wiley was shot and killed during a traffic stop, leaving behind a wife and three children. The suspect, identified as Stephen Wiggins, has an extensive criminal history and was out on probation at the time of the shooting.
Authorities have issued a Blue Alert for Wiggins, which is similar to an Amber Alert for missing children but is used in cases where a law enforcement officer has been attacked. The Blue Alert is designed to speed up the apprehension of violent criminals who kill or seriously injure law enforcement officers.
Wiggins was last seen with long hair and wearing a blue shirt, and he has tattoos on his arms and neck. He is believed to be armed with at least two guns and should not be approached if spotted. Instead, the public is urged to contact law enforcement immediately.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has added Wiggins to its Most Wanted list and is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to his arrest. They have also released a new photo of Wiggins to aid in the search efforts.
The community has come together in support of Deputy Wiley’s family, with a candlelight vigil planned to honor his life and service. The tragic event has also sparked conversations about the safety of law enforcement officers and the need to address the issue of violent attacks against them.
As the manhunt for Wiggins continues, the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. The search for the armed and dangerous suspect is ongoing as law enforcement officers work tirelessly to ensure that he is brought to justice for the fatal shooting of Deputy Sheriff Joshua L. Wiley.