LAWRENCEBURG, Tenn. (WSMV) – A Lawrence County deputy was struck by a vehicle late Wednesday night while attempting to conduct a traffic stop.

The suspect was apprehended Thursday morning after an overnight search, according to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.

Police said Deputy Robert Klein stopped a vehicle around 9:30 p.m. on Waterloo Road. One of the occupants, Jose Antonio Lopez, Jr., had multiple warrants for his arrest, and as Klein approached, Lopez took control of the vehicle.

Klein allegedly fired a shot through the vehicle’s windshield as it approached him, police said. He was then struck by the vehicle and thrown into a ditch.

Klein was flown to Nashville and is currently listed in stable condition, LCSO said.

Lopez fled on Waterloo Road. for about a quarter mile in the vehicle before fleeing on foot, LCSO said. Evidence in the vehicle also indicated that Lopez may have been hit by the bullet fired by Klein.

Lopez’s girlfriend was also an occupant of the car. She was arrested and released, police said.

“Ground teams, several drones, tracking dogs and a helicopter were dispatched to the scene to search for Lopez,” LCSO said. Lopez was apprehended Thursday around 11 a.m. after a call from a person matching his description in the Adams Rd. area.

Police found Lopez hiding in a barn. He was taken to the hospital to treat his gunshot wound.

After his release from the hospital, Lopez will be arrested and charged with several counts.

“The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all of the first responders who came to assist in the capture of Jose Antonio Lopez, Jr.,” LCSO said.

Copyright 2024 WSMV. All rights reserved.