A Tennessee police lieutenant has sadly died after drowning on a hunting trip in North Dakota. His kayak tragically overturned while on the trip.
His police department is mourning the loss of Police Lieutenant Gordon Gwathney.
"This is an incomprehensible loss for our agency and the entire Knoxville community," Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel said in a press statement. "Gordon was beloved by our department and so many members of our community. He was a truly exceptional police officer who mentored generations of officers, dedicated his entire life to service and embodied the true spirit of community policing."
Police Officer Drowns In Kayak Accident
"Gwathney, known endearingly as 'Officer G' throughout the East Knoxville community, served virtually his entire career on patrol," the department said in its statement. "Early in his career, he was assigned as the first-ever School Resource Officer at Austin-East High School, where he formed countless lasting relationships in the community."
"We are completely devastated by his passing and ask the community to lift his family, the members of our department and all who loved Gordon up in prayer," they added.
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon also mourned the police officer.
"Gordon Gwathney will always be remembered first and foremost as 'Officer G', the friendly, accessible, caring officer who took the time to really get to know the people he was entrusted to serve and protect," Kincannon also said in a statement, "His commitment to listening and earning the trust of the community was exceptional. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and co-workers as we grieve his untimely death."
