Sheriff Tom Spangler has awarded Deputy Matt Kirchner the 2025 Deputy of the Year and the Medal of Valor.
“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of duty while serving as a patrolman with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office on June 21, 2025.”
Deputy Kirchner was previously a KnoxTNToday Our Town Hero.
Deputy Kirchner, along with Deputies Swanger and Gendreau, was responding to a report of possible shots fired in a residential area near Stanley Road and Boulder Point Lane. After making contact with an irrational subject in a tree line behind a residence, the situation quickly escalated into a highly volatile and dangerous encounter as the suspect started throwing large rocks at the deputies.
Despite being struck in the arm by one of the rocks, Deputy Kirchner continued to confront the suspect without hesitation. During the ensuing chaos, Deputy Swanger was critically injured when a rock struck him in the head. Demonstrating extraordinary courage and composure, Deputy Kirchner acted immediately, coordinating with Deputy Gendreau and swiftly dragging Deputy Swanger approximately 20 yards to safety.
Refusing to retreat, Deputy Kirchner reengaged the ongoing threat and pushed back into the tree line to regain visual contact with the suspect. With exceptional tactical awareness and clear communication, honed through 25 years of dedicated service, he provided precise direction to responding officers on scene. His decisive line-level leadership and steadfast resolve were instrumental in apprehending the suspect and ensuring the safety of fellow deputies and the surrounding community.
Through his extraordinary actions, superb courage, and loyal devotion to duty, Deputy Matthew Kirchner reflected great credit upon himself and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office while upholding the highest traditions of the law enforcement profession.
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