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Sevier County deputy, K9 officer injured in wreck

(Photo via Sevier County Fire Department)

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — A Sevier County Sheriff’s deputy was injured in the line of duty and is in serious condition at a Knoxville hospital, according to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office.

On May 21 at 11:45 p.m. Deputy Jonathan Dodd pulled over a car at the Exit 412 off-ramp on the eastbound side of I-40. The car then fled from Dodd said SCSO. As Dodd began to pursue the car, he and a full-size truck towing an enclosed trailer collided.

Dodd was then taken to UT Medical Center where he is in critical but stable condition according to the sheriff’s office. His K9 partner, Toro, was in his patrol vehicle and suffer injuries. Toro is expected to make a full recovery.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the collision. The sheriff’s office is also investing the vehicle that fled from Dodd.

On Facebook, the Sevier County Fire Department wrote, “We work alongside these deputies almost every day and we are praying for a full recovery. We ask that our supporters and community as a whole keep the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Dodd, and his friends and families in your prayers today.”

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated with additional information.