BLOUNT COUNTY, TN – A Blount County Sheriff’s deputy was killed during a motorcycle pursuit in Friendsville late last month, and the suspect involved is now facing multiple felony charges, authorities said.

According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Justin Mowery attempted to stop a motorcycle on December 28 for speeding and reckless driving in Friendsville. The rider refused to stop, leading to a pursuit. During the incident, Mowery’s patrol vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole. He sustained fatal injuries in the crash.

The motorcyclist fled the scene and remained at large until investigators identified and apprehended him. Authorities later determined the motorcycle involved had been reported stolen out of Loudon County. At the time of his arrest, the suspect—described as a convicted felon—was armed with a firearm and in possession of methamphetamine. He has been charged with evading arrest resulting in the death of a law enforcement officer, along with several additional offenses.

Mowery, 30, began his public safety career as a security guard at UT Medical Center, where he worked to protect the facility’s Level I trauma center. He joined the Blount County Sheriff’s Office in 2020 and later earned a position on the agency’s SWAT team as an explosive breacher. He also served as a field training officer for new deputies.

During his career, Mowery was deputized as a member of the United States Marshals Smoky Mountain Fugitive Task Force, a role cited by the sheriff’s office as a significant milestone in his service.

Outside of work, Mowery enjoyed fishing and duck hunting with friends and spending time with his dog, Ruger. He was known for his commitment to fitness and was an active member of First Baptist Concord.

Deputy Mowery is survived by his mother, brother, and extended family members.