Maryville, TN – District Attorney General Dave Clark has provided new details surrounding the officer-involved shooting that occurred in Anderson County on December 26, 2023, shedding light on the charges and events leading up to the incident.
The suspect, 27-year-old Dylan Phillips, faces several serious charges, including assaulting an officer and multiple counts of aggravated assault. According to Clark, the series of events began when deputies from the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office attempted to apprehend Phillips in a vehicle pursuit. The chase, which started in Campbell County, entered Anderson County, prompting local law enforcement to join the pursuit.
The situation escalated when Phillips pulled over on the I-75 Southbound lanes near mile marker 127. It was at this point that Phillips allegedly pointed a weapon at officers, prompting law enforcement from the Jacksboro Police Department and the Rocky Top Police Department to open fire. Despite being shot, Phillips continued to flee the scene, and the chase resumed.
Clark explained that the pursuit ultimately ended when an Anderson County deputy performed a PIT (precision immobilization technique) maneuver, which successfully stopped Phillips’ vehicle. The suspect was then taken into custody.
Though Phillips was struck multiple times during the exchange of gunfire, he was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and later released. Fortunately, none of the officers involved in the chase were injured.
District Attorney Clark expressed relief that no officers were harmed, while also noting that Phillips is recovering. He emphasized that the investigation into the officer-involved shooting is still ongoing, and it could take several months to complete.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is continuing its role in the inquiry, ensuring all aspects of the shooting are thoroughly examined. The case has drawn attention due to the tense nature of the encounter and the ongoing investigation into the actions of both law enforcement and the suspect.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities urge the public to remain patient while they work to gather all necessary information surrounding the event.
