Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in August 2022.

In a harrowing incident that unfolded on August 1, two reserve deputies from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office found themselves in the midst of a life-altering situation. The off-duty deputies, identified as Lucas and Nicole Shoffner, were struck by a vehicle while attempting to repair a dirt bike alongside a roadway, as reported by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Lucas and Nicole Shoffner holding each other in full military uniform, Photo Credit: Gofundme

The driver of the vehicle was Raymond Surber, a 31-year-old deputy from the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office. Surber was behind the wheel of a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado when the collision occurred around 11:17 p.m. The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office has reached out to the community, urging prayers for the injured deputies in a heartfelt Facebook post.

Lucas and Nicole Shoffner both sustained injuries in the accident, with Lucas bearing the brunt of the vehicle impact. In a shocking turn of events, Matt Fagiana, a former Loudon County sergeant and current member of the Law Enforcement Executive Development Association, revealed that Lucas courageously saved Nicole’s life by pushing her out of harm’s way.

Lucas Shoffner posing with fellow officers in front of a helicopter, Photo Credit: WBIR

Fagiana rallied support for Lucas, describing him as kind, loyal, funny, and resilient. He stated, “You got this Lucas, and we are behind you and Nicole every step of the way.” The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office emphasized Lucas’s dedication to his career, describing him as an incredible young man who has devoted his entire career to serving his country and community.

Lucas Shoffner is currently battling very serious head injuries and is in the Transplant Intensive Care Unit at the UT Medical Center. The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office shared that Lucas has been placed under a medically induced coma, and as of the latest update, he is being gradually weaned off the paralytic but remains fully sedated.