KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – The Knoxville Police Department says a crime scene technician wounded while investigating a shooting over the weekend remains hospitalized and is continuing treatment for serious injuries.
According to KPD, Cody Lawson was struck by gunfire Sunday night while officers and forensic personnel were processing evidence at the scene of a shooting on Jones Street.
Investigators say Joey Rudd fired multiple shots from a wooded area near the crime scene, hitting Lawson in the arm during the ongoing investigation.
Lawson was rushed to a hospital with what police described as significant injuries and underwent surgery on Monday. In an update released Tuesday, KPD said she remains hospitalized and is scheduled to undergo another surgical procedure.
“She is in good spirits but has a long road to recovery ahead,” the department said.
In response to the incident, KPD announced the creation of a fund to support Lawson and her family as she recovers.
Police said donations can be made through an account established at the Knoxville Law Enforcement Federal Credit Union. Contributions must be delivered in person at the credit union’s location at 501 E. Summit Hill Drive.
The department said it has been overwhelmed by support from community members and law enforcement agencies across the region since the shooting.
“We are extremely grateful for that support from the community and our law enforcement partners alike, and we ask that you continue to keep Cody and her family in your thoughts in the days, weeks and months to come,” KPD said.
Following the shooting, Rudd was charged with four counts of attempted first-degree murder and four counts of employing a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The investigation remains ongoing.
