By Shannon McFarlin News Director
McKenzie, Tenn.–Tennessee Highway Patrol pilot Sgt. Lee Russell of McKenzie was killed in a tragic helicopter accident Tuesday near Chattanooga. Sgt. Russell is a familiar face to many in our area, as he was a former Henry County deputy and flew many missions for local and area law enforcement agencies as a THP pilot.
Russell was the son of retired THP Lt. Steve Russell of McKenzie, who also was a deputy for the Henry County Sheriff’s Office before working for the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Also killed in the accident was a Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy. The helicopter crashed into a wooded area on Aetna Mountain in Marion County after accidentally hitting a power line on Tuesday afternoon, according to officials.
THP officials held a news conference late Tuesday night outside of the Whiteside Church of God. THP Capt. Travis Plotzer said, “Today is a very tragic day for law enforcement.” He said the investigation into the accident with the FAA is ongoing.
As news of Russell’s death spread, tributes to the THP pilot grew on social media last night, with his law enforcement colleagues expressing grief and asking for prayers.
Henry County Sheriff Josh Frey, former Sheriff Monte Belew and numerous deputies and police officers said during the night how heartbroken they were at the loss of a long-time friend who was always there when needed and would do anything for everyone. Frey said it was especially difficult to find words to express the sadness being felt by everyone. “It will be a tough day today.”
Belew credited Lee with “saving countless lives and arresting countless bad guys all from the air. He was a HERO.”
During Russell’s career with the THP, he tracked numerous criminals, found numerous missing persons and helped with countless investigations.
Carroll County Mayor Joseph Butler said, “We are completely heartbroken with the news of Sgt. Lee Russell’s passing. Sgt. Russell was a dedicated husband, father, son, law enforcement officer, and friend.”