Summary

The search for Phillip Hammock, 37, Sevierville -- who is wanted in connection with an armed robbery in Pigeon Forge Friday -- is still going as a second day of hunting for the man did not result in his capture.

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Manhunt continues for suspect

From Staff Reports
Originally published: October 25. 2009 3:01AM
Last modified: October 25. 2009 12:04AM

The search for Phillip Hammock, 37, Sevierville — who is wanted in connection with an armed robbery in Pigeon Forge Friday — is still going as a second day of hunting for the man did not result in his capture.

After the alleged armed robbery Friday afternoon, Hammock was chased by a Townsend police officer — the chase ended when Hammock allegedly drove his white truck, which was reported stolen out of Alabama, into a cottage. He then reportedly exited his vehicle, ran into the nearby woods and turned toward the officer — the Townsend officer saw what he believed to be a gun and fired upon the suspect, said Blount County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Marian O'Briant.

As many as 60 emergency personnel were at the scene or participating in the search for Hammock at its peak, Blount County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Ron Dunn said.

Townsend Elementary School was put on lockdown after school officials heard gunshots in the area.

Hammock should be considered armed and dangerous, Dunn said.

"(He) certainly has the potential to be, and has been today (Friday)," Dunn said.

Members of Hammock's family told law enforcement that the man had recently been released from prison, Dunn said. According to information from the Tennessee Sexual Offender Registry, Hammock was convicted in 2003 on a charge of sexual abuse of a child younger than 12 years old. He is identified as a violent sexual offender.

Hammock had not been located as of late Saturday, though warrants for his arrest were filed, meaning law enforcement personnel across the state know to hold him if he is stopped for any reason.