End of Watch: Wednesday, June 28, 1972
Deputy Sheriff John Morris Heithcock
Williamson County Sheriff's Office, Tennessee

Deputy Sheriff John Morris Heithcock was shot and killed in the line of duty while assisting the Fairview Police Chief during a vehicle pursuit.

The incident began when the Fairview Chief attempted to stop a vehicle for speeding. The driver initially pulled over, but then brandished a firearm, ordered the chief back into his patrol car, and fled the scene. The ensuing pursuit continued for approximately five miles before the suspect pulled into his own driveway in the Bon Aqua community along Highway 100, near the Williamson County and Hickman County line. Upon arrival at the scene, Deputy Heithcock was met with gunfire from the suspect, who was hiding in a ditch. Tragically, Deputy Heithcock was struck in the chest by a shotgun blast and succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect was later apprehended and convicted of Deputy Heithcock’s murder. However, he was released from prison after serving only 11 years.

Deputy Heithcock had served with the Williamson County Sheriff's Office for just two months at the time of his death. He was a devoted husband and father, survived by his wife and four children.