A local truck driver was arrested and banned from a Pilot travel center following an evening dispute over fuel pump occupancy that escalated into a firearm incident.

According to Crossville Police Department reports, Officer Shelters responded to a gas station on Genesis Road on November 6, 2026, at approximately 6:19 PM. Officers with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, including Sptl. Zimmerman and Lt. South, were already on the scene ordering David Barnes out of his truck following reports of an altercation involving a gun.

The dispute began when Barnes took issue with another driver leaving a truck parked at the fuel pumps for an extended period while eating at a nearby restaurant. Barnes started recording the other driver with his phone, leading to a verbal exchange as the driver returned to the vehicle.

Store surveillance footage later corroborated the other driver’s account, showing Barnes retrieving a handgun from his driver’s side area, racking the slide, and pointing it in the direction of the driver and the vehicle as the individual walked past. Barnes initially denied brandishing the weapon when questioned by Officer Shelters, claiming he merely placed it on his seat, but later stated he felt fearful due to his age and medical conditions. He could not provide specific examples of threatening behavior from the other driver.

The other driver reported feeling terrified and fearing for his life during the encounter, intentionally avoiding eye contact to prevent escalation.

Officers arrested Barnes for aggravated assault and transported him to the Cumberland County Justice Center. The store manager requested that Barnes be officially banned from the Pilot property.