CLIFTON MAN ARRESTED, CHARGED IN SHOOTING DEATH OF DEPUTY
HARDIN COUNTY – An investigation by special agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has resulted in the arrest of a Clifton man in connection to the shooting death of a Hardin County Deputy.
At the request of 24th District Attorney General Matt Stowe, TBI special agents began investigating the on-duty homicide 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 were dispatched to a residence in the 3000 block of Nance Bend Road in Clifton in reference to a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, officers made contact with Todd Alan Stricklin, who was armed with a handgun. Officers ordered Stricklin to drop the weapon, but he refused. As another Hardin County deputy approached the home to assist, Stricklin shot him. The deputy was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.
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 located and taken into custody by troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
This morning, TBI Agents obtained an arrest warrant for Todd Stricklin (DOB 12/6/72), charging him one count of First Degree Murder. He was booked into the Hardin County Jail before being transferred to the Chester County Jail.
Official Statement – Hardin County Sheriff Johnny Alexander
Last night, Hardin County Sheriff Deputy Matthew Locke was assisting another deputy regarding a domestic disturbance call when he was senselessly fired upon. Deputy Locke ultimately succumbed to the injuries he tragically sustained while serving and protecting his community with honor and distinction.
In addition to serving his community as a law enforcement officer, Deputy Locke served his country as a member of the Tennessee National Guard.
We remember Deputy Locke for his selfless dedication, absolute courage and unparalleled commitment. Our country has lost a warrior. Our community has lost a hero. Our department has lost a brother. We will never forget Deputy Locke, and we are all forever in debt for his sacrifice.
On behalf of myself and everyone with the Hardin County Sheriff’s Department, we express our deepest condolences to members of Deputy Locke’s family, his friends and loved ones. I also want to express my support, care and concern for all members of the Hardin County Sheriff’s Department, the City of Savannah Police Department and our surrounding colleagues from other departments, as you are unfairly forced to mourn this tragic loss.
In closing, we ask that the privacy of Deputy Locke’s family and friends be respected during this most difficult time. Please keep the family of Deputy Locke in your thoughts and prayers during the difficult days ahead.
Hardin County Sheriff Johnny Alexander
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Official Statement Link: https://www.hardincosheriff.com/deputy-matthew-locke/