Cumberland County Sheriff Casey Cox is remembering the late Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler as a dedicated leader, devoted veteran, and loyal friend following his passing.

The friendship between the two law enforcement officials began years ago during a critical incident when a Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy was shot in the line of duty and airlifted to UT Medical Center in Knoxville. While rushing to the scene, Sheriff Cox received a voicemail from an unfamiliar 865 number. It was Sheriff Spangler, informing him that he and his Chief Deputy would meet the injured deputy at the helipad and stay by his bedside until Cumberland County leadership arrived. True to his word, Spangler stood watch at the hospital for nearly two hours without being asked, establishing a lasting bond between the two departments.

Beyond his intervention during that dark moment, Spangler built a legacy defined by service. A United States Air Force veteran, he dedicated his life to protecting others, eventually leading the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and serving alongside Cox on the Appalachia HIDTA Executive Board and within the Tennessee Sheriffs’ Association.

Sheriff Cox expressed deep sorrow over the loss, offering prayers and condolences to Spangler’s family, friends, and the members of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office on behalf of the entire Cumberland County agency. Spangler is remembered not just for his official titles, but for his immediate willingness to show up for a fellow officer in need.