Sullivan County Corrections Officer Intervenes to Stop Robbery at Bristol Gas Station

BRISTOL, Tenn. — A Sullivan County corrections officer is being hailed as a local hero after stepping in to stop an attempted robbery at a Bristol gas station. The incident occurred on Monday, March 11, 2024, when the officer happened to be on the scene during the attempted crime.

According to the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office, the corrections officer was off-duty and visiting the store when they observed a suspect attempting to rob the cashier. Recognizing the immediate threat, the officer intervened, de-escalating the situation and detaining the suspect until local police arrived to take custody.

The swift intervention prevented any injuries to the station clerk or bystanders, and no assets were stolen. Bristol Police Department officers arrived shortly after receiving the emergency call and took the suspect into custody. The suspect has since been charged with attempted robbery and is being held at the Sullivan County Jail.

Sheriff's officials praised the officer's bravery and training, noting that their actions reflect the highest standards of the department's personnel, even when off the clock. The identity of the officer has not been released to protect their privacy.