One deputy was shot in the face and another in the hand and arm in Sunday night’s shootout at the Ooltewah exit in which the shooter was killed.
As per the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office's standard operating policy, the four deputies involved have been placed on administrative leave with pay for 14 days.
The pursuit began in Catoosa County and involved the reported kidnapping of an 18-month-old child and an armed suspect. The event culminated near the I-75 Ooltewah exit with an exchange of gunfire.
Sheriff Austin Garrett said, “After being with my deputies Sunday night both at the scene and at the hospital, it is apparent it is by God’s grace these two deputies are alive and were not more seriously injured despite being shot during this tragic incident. I am also incredibly grateful the small child involved in this incident was not seriously harmed. These four deputies, acting with courage and without hesitation, saved the life of this young child and had they not intervened and stopped this suspect, there is no telling how this situation may have ended. These deputies are heroes - plain and simple. I am humbled and proud to serve alongside them and all the brave men and women of the HCSO.”
The names of the deputies who have been placed on administrative leave after Sunday night’s shooting are as follows:
• Deputy Jorge Araiza;
• Deputy Alfred Girardot;
• Deputy Andrew Pierson; and
• Deputy Jake Thomas.
Deputy Alfred Girardot was shot in the face and Deputy Jake Thomas was shot in the arm and hand during Sunday night’s deputy involved shooting. Both deputies were treated and released.