Kingston, TN ( WOKI / WVLT) – A Kingston man is facing multiple charges after a police pursuit ended with an armed standoff at an apartment complex Saturday night.
According to authorities, 41-year-old Leroy Thornton III was taken into custody after a tense confrontation with officers at the Scottish Arms Apartments on James Ferry Road.
Thornton is charged with reckless endangerment, evading arrest, and aggravated assault on a police officer, among other offenses.
The incident began at approximately 10:10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, when police received reports of gunfire near 230 North Third Street in Kingston.
Shortly afterward, an officer spotted an orange two-door vehicle speeding on East Race Street. According to police, the driver revved the engine before driving past the officer again. At that point, the officer reported hearing a loud bang and seeing a muzzle flash coming from the vehicle.
The officer initiated a pursuit, which ended at the Scottish Arms apartment complex.
Investigators say Thornton exited the vehicle and pointed a small black handgun at the pursuing officer. The officer drew his service weapon and issued verbal commands, but Thornton reportedly went inside an apartment.
Police said Thornton later returned to the porch armed with a gun and began yelling at officers who had responded to assist.
Authorities established a perimeter around the apartment complex and eventually made contact with Thornton by telephone. During negotiations, Thornton reportedly told officers that he was “hearing voices.”
After a brief standoff, officers were able to convince Thornton to put down the weapon and surrender peacefully. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Following the arrest, investigators recovered four pistols and two rifles from the scene.
Thornton is currently being held at the Roane County Detention Facility. No injuries to officers or civilians were reported.
