KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Four teens were arrested after police say they shot fireworks at officers who responded to a crash in the Lonsdale area during the Fourth of July, according to the Knoxville Police Department news release.
Police said officers responded to the crash near Texas Avenue and Pascal Drive around 10:15 p.m. Witnesses told police that a black Hyundai was being struck with paintballs and fireworks, causing it to crash into a white F-150.
Numerous people started throwing "mortar style" fireworks at the responding officers and their cruisers, the release stated. More officers came to the Lonsdale area to help secure the scene.
Officers say they were forced to escort the victims in the wreck out of the area. They were attempting to secure the disabled vehicles from the crash.
Knoxville Police says two adults, one teenager and three were taken to AMR for medical evaluation.
According to the release, four juvenile males, between the ages of 14-16, were arrested. Two were charged with aggravated assault and evading arrest, and two others were charged with disorderly conduct and evading arrest.
"This behavior is completely unacceptable, and it puts our officers and residents at risk of legitimate physical and mental harm," Chief of Police Paul Noel said. "I am relieved that nobody was seriously injured and thankful that none of our officers were injured. I also appreciate how our officers handled what was an incredibly chaotic and stressful situation."
Officers had to respond to the Lonsdale area for the second time after reports of fireworks being shot at cars and people. Police said officers conducting a walking patrol of the area arrested Corey Armstrong, 21, near the 1900 block of Minnesota Avenue for unlawful possession of a weapon.
When officers first encountered him, Armstrong had a mortar, mortar tube and a loaded firearm, the release said.
"The Knoxville Police Department appreciates the Tennessee Highway Patrol and Knox County Sheriff’s Office for their response and assistance to help address continued firework-related issues in the area," the release said.
from WKRN News 2 https://ift.tt/lEBk7if
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