Hardin County deputy responding to domestic disturbance fatally shot, Clifton man facing murder charge
Hardin County Deputy Sheriff Matthew LockeA Clifton man has been arrested on a charge of first degree murder in the on-duty death of a Hardin County deputy sheriff.
TBI special agents are investigating the fatal shooting of a Hardin County deputy that occurred Saturday evening. Initial information indicates that just after 8:30 p.m., deputies with the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office and an officer with the Clifton Police Department went to a residence in the 3000 block of Nance Bend Road in Clifton regarding a domestic disturbance, according to the TBI.
Upon arrival, officers met Todd Alan Stricklin, who was armed with a handgun and allegedly refused to drop the weapon. As another Hardin County deputy approached the home to assist, Stricklin allegedly shot him, the TBI said.
Hardin County Sheriff Johnny Alexander identified the deputy who was shot as Matthew Locke, and said he “ultimately succumbed to the injuries he tragically sustained while serving and protecting his community with honor and distinction.”
Stricklin ran from the scene into a wooded area. Numerous law enforcement agencies responded to assist in the search. A few hours later, Stricklin was found and taken into custody by Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers, the TBI said.
Sunday morning, TBI agents obtained an arrest warrant for Stricklin, 48, charging him with first degree murder. He was booked into the Hardin County jail before being transferred to the Chester County jail, the TBI said.
Alexander said Locke was also a member of the National Guard, and expressed condolences to Locke’s family. “Our community has lost a hero,” he said. “Please keep the family of Deputy Locke in your thoughts and prayers during the difficult days ahead.”
(Ed. note: Publication of this story was delayed several hours to give Hardin County Sheriff Johnny Alexander the opportunity to comment.)
