WARREN COUNTY, Tenn. - Authorities in nearby Warren County have released new details about a reported hit-and-run incident outside a Dollar General store on Smithville Highway, where a store employee was allegedly struck by a vehicle after attempting to stop a suspected shoplifter.

According to information released by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded on June 27, 2026, to the Dollar General at 4763 Smithville Highway after receiving a report that a store employee had been hit by a vehicle. The incident unfolded east of Rutherford County, in Warren County, which sits beyond neighboring Cannon County.

Investigators said a white male entered the store and used the restroom before leaving. A short time later, another customer reportedly alerted store manager Brent Clarida that the man had allegedly stolen a six-pack of Coca-Cola.

Clarida then went outside in an attempt to stop the suspect and stood in front of the suspect’s gold Jeep, according to the sheriff’s office. Instead of stopping, the driver allegedly accelerated toward Clarida, struck him with the vehicle, and fled outbound on Smithville Highway.

Following the incident, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office turned to social media for help identifying the person believed to be involved. Authorities later said detectives were able to positively identify the driver within approximately two to three hours. However, the suspect’s name has not been released, and the sheriff’s office has not announced what charges, if any, are being pursued in connection with the case.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Warren County Investigator Spencer Pryor at the Warren County Sheriff’s Office at (931) 473-7863.

Photos: include original footage released by the Warren County Sheriff's Office and computer enhanced images to the left of the original Dollar General footage on the right. 

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