KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — A man wanted in South Carolina for allegedly making hoax bomb threats was arrested in Knoxville Wednesday evening following a coordinated operation involving the Knoxville Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol.
According to KPD, officers and THP troopers located a vehicle believed to be associated with the suspect at approximately 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Shoney’s restaurant on Rutledge Pike.
Authorities identified the suspect as 57-year-old Aaron Wiles, who was wanted on outstanding warrants from South Carolina related to alleged hoax bomb threats.
Officers conducted a traffic stop and safely detained Wiles without incident.
Because of the nature of the allegations and concerns that explosive materials could potentially be involved, KPD’s Hazardous Device Unit was called to the scene to inspect the vehicle.
Police said the response was conducted out of an abundance of caution.
After searching the vehicle, Hazardous Device Unit personnel found no suspicious or dangerous devices.
Following the investigation at the scene, Wiles was taken into custody on the South Carolina warrants.
No injuries were reported, and authorities have not released additional information regarding the South Carolina case.
The investigation remains ongoing.
