(above photo L-R) earlier photo of Sheriff Chad Partin and Ray "Butch" Stewart

BEECHGROVE, TN (WGNS) - Here's an update on the officer involved shooting that took place just before 8 o’clock Friday night (8/28/2026) near the Rutherford–Coffee County line. It left one man dead and a well‑known Coffee County sheriff's sergeant badly injured. The incident unfolded in the Beechgrove community, an area that has seen three officer‑involved shootings in recent weeks — the most recent only eight days ago.

According to the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, Sgt. Investigator Ray “Butch” Stewart, Investigator Alex Bell and Sgt. Matt Miller were attempting to serve an arrest warrant on Spring Circle in Lakewood Park when the situation turned violent. The suspect reportedly came at Sgt. Stewart with a three‑foot machete, striking him multiple times in the chest and severely injuring his left hand as Stewart tried to defend himself.

The radio call no deputy ever wants to hear — “shots fired, officer down” — went out across the airwaves. Despite his injuries, Stewart was quickly pulled from the scene by nearby deputies and rushed to the hospital in Manchester. Sheriff’s officials say Stewart is “cut up real bad,” but tough as ever, and recovering.

Sgt. Miller fired the shot that stopped the attack. Deputies immediately began CPR and lifesaving measures on the suspect until EMS arrived, but he did not survive.

Per Tennessee protocol, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Coffee County District Attorney’s Office responded to the scene and took over the investigation. Sheriff Chad Partin noted that his department remains committed to addressing what he called a “toxic environment” in the community, saying deputies will continue using every available tool and resource to protect residents.

Sheriff Partin also asked the community to keep his team in their prayers, “Please continue to pray for a quick recovery for Sgt. Stewart as he heals. Remember Sgt. Matt Miller and Investigator Alex Bell as we continue to support them and their families. I want to also thank Manchester and Tullahoma Police Departments for their support and dedication.”

As more details become available, NewsRadio WGNS will keep you informed.