JCPD investigators honored for saving unresponsive juvenile from creek

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – The Johnson City Commission recognized two investigators credited with saving a missing juvenile’s life after they found them unresponsive in a creek bed in late February.

According to a news release from the City of Johnson City, Investigator Timothy Joe Hensley will receive the Johnson City Police Department’s (JCPD) Life Saving Award. Investigator Ashley Ellenburg will also receive a letter of commendation.

On Feb. 28, the JCPD was informed that a juvenile was missing. Hensley attempted to find out where the juvenile was by tracking the minor’s phone, but the exact coordinates were reportedly unavailable.

The JCPD wrote that Hensley, knowing weather conditions were changing, worked quickly to start a search. He found the juvenile unresponsive in a creek bed.

Hensley called EMS, and the juvenile was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

“Investigator Hensley saved the life of an area juvenile. Because of his tenacity, the juvenile was located and is still with us today. Medical officials said he would not have survived through the night had Investigator Hensley not found him,” Johnson City Police Chief Billy Church stated in the news release.

Ellenburg is being recognized for assisting Hensley in the search for the juvenile.

Both investigators received their awards Thursday night at the Johnson City Commission meeting at 6 p.m. A JCPD awards committee chose to honor the pair.

“The commitment of our JCPD officers exemplifies the highest standards of law enforcement. They deserve to be recognized and appreciated for what they do every day. They make our community safe, and they make our community better,” Johnson City City Manager Cathy Ball stated.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.