Police officer in Maryville, Tenn., fatally shot during disturbance call

MARYVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 26 (UPI) -- A police officer in Maryville, Tenn., was fatally shot outside a home on Thursday when responding to a domestic disturbance call.

Maryville Police Chief Tony Crisp did not reveal the identity of the deceased officer, saying the officer's family had not yet been notified.

The officer and a Blount County sheriff's deputy went to the home after someone called about a domestic disturbance.

Police said that a man named Brian Keith Stalons came out and shot the Maryville Police officer. The other officer and another who arrived shortly after opened fire on the Stalons, who was not hit but was arrested. The wounded officer, who was wearing a bulletproof vest but was shot in the neck, was taken to Tennessee Medical Center where he later died.

"We live in a great place, and we're not immune to tragic events like this," Crisp said. "We're grateful for our city, and this is a sad day for our city. We ask all people to join in our prayers."

Crisp said the deceased officer was the father of three small children.

Stalons, 44, will likely be charged on Friday. The two Blount County officers have been placed on paid administrative leave.

"The investigators were close to the call and responded. They parked their vehicle at a residence approximately 70 yards behind the house from which the call originated," Blount County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. "Once on the scene, investigators were able to take the victim, who is Stalons' father, into a safe area. They then positioned themselves behind their vehicle waiting on help to arrive while watching the house. As they were taking cover, Stalons opened fire on them from his father's garage, striking the Maryville police officer in the neck."