SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. — The Sumner County Sheriff's Office said Friday on social media that its sheriff, Roy "Sonny" Weatherford, has died.
The Sevier County Sheriff, Michael Hodges, said Friday that Weatherford was in the Sevierville area for a sheriff's conference. He also said he could not provide specific information, but said he was taken to the hospital on Thursday.
"Throughout his career, Sheriff Weatherford faced countless challenges with courage and determination, always prioritizing the safety of others above his own," the Sumner County Sheriff's Office said on social media. "Beyond the badge and uniform, Sonny was a person of deep compassion and empathy. He understood that the role of a sheriff was not just about enforcing the law, but also about fostering trust and building relationships within the community."
The Sumner County Sheriff's Office said it extended its condolences to Weatherford's family.
WBIR learned that Weatherford's body was taken back to Middle Tennessee with the Tennessee Highway Patrol as an escort. Sheriff Weatherford served Sumner County for more than 40 years.
"It was an honor to escort Sheriff Roy "Sonny" Weatherford home to Sumner County," THP said.
His cause of death is still unknown.
WBIR reached out to the Sumner County Sheriff's Office to ask if sightings of a "sea of blue" in East Tennessee were related to Weatherford's death. This story will be updated when more information is available.