According to the sheriff's department, Deputy B.J. Johnson
and his partner, K9 Vigor, were tracking a wanted man through the Cherokee
National Forest in Tellico Plains.
The deputies had to cross a river in their pursuit, and the
strong current over powered both Deputy Johnson and Vigor.
"Deputy Johnson attempted to save his partners life
several times but the current was too strong. Deputy Vigor was located down
stream and deputies immediately began CPR and unfortunately they were unable to
revive Deputy Vigor," according to a post on the department's Facebook page.
"Deputy Vigor was a wonderful dog and will truly be missed."
The suspect, Doug Ellis, is still on the run. He is wanted
for a violation of probation on charges of kidnapping, aggravated assault, and
evading arrest.
The sheriff's department has asked residents of Tellico
Plains and Coker Creek to keep an eye out for Ellis, and warns that he may be
armed and should not be approached.
If you have any information, you are asked to call the
Monroe County Dispatch Center at 423-442-4357.
Tellico Plains and Coker Creek residents please be on the
lookout for Doug Ellis. If you see Mr. Ellis please call the Monroe County
Dispatch Center 423-442-4357 do not approach we have received information that
he is possibly armed. Mr. Ellis is wanted for Violation of Probation. He is
currently on probation for kidnapping, agg assault and evading arrest.
Website: Monroe County Sheriff's Office
