SHELBYVILLE, TN - Authorities in the Bedford County area provided further details regarding the apprehension of wanted fugitive Matthew Paul Barnes on December 17, 2024. The unfolding saga began earlier in the month, on December 4, when the Shelbyville Police Department received a notification from the Franklin County Sheriff's Department regarding Barnes's suspected presence in Shelbyville. Barnes was wanted in Franklin County for multiple felonies, including Aggravated Burglary, Felony Theft, Domestic Assault, and two counts of Evading Arrest.

Authorities reported that on December 4, Sgt. Michael Taylor attempted to stop Barnes, who fled the scene in a red Ford Expedition, leading officers on a high-speed chase into Lincoln County. Despite the pursuit, Barnes managed to evade capture.

Fast forward to December 17: Shelbyville Police Officers successfully located the red Ford Expedition parked at 101 Carlisle Avenue. Officers observed Barnes working on the vehicle, but he quickly retreated into the house upon noticing the police presence. It was then revealed that Barnes had taken his girlfriend hostage, prompting law enforcement to obtain a search warrant.

In a coordinated effort, officers from the Shelbyville Police Department, along with the Bedford County SWAT Team, surrounded the home. K-9 units were deployed, and negotiations commenced. After approximately an hour, Barnes surrendered peacefully, and the female hostage was rescued unharmed. Barnes was taken into custody without further incident.

Law enforcement officials commended the professionalism and teamwork of the Directed Patrol Division, the Bedford County SWAT Team, and all officers involved for ensuring a safe resolution to this dangerous situation.

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