Tennessee Towman Stops Knife Attack

Tow owner Tony Cate became an unlikely hero during a violent incident Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026, in Jefferson City, Tennessee, stepping in to stop a knife-wielding attacker and protect a longtime friend.

Cate, owner of TNT Towing was at Lakeview Market—part of a routine he says he’s followed “almost every morning for 20 years”—when he heard a commotion at the front of the store. Within moments, a woman moved behind the counter into the deli area, holding what Cate described as a large knife, possibly 18 inches or longer.

Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Cate didn’t hesitate. “It was all or nothing,” he said. He rushed behind the counter just as deli manager Christie Sims struggled to keep the attacker from driving the blade into her stomach. Cate grabbed the suspect, disarmed her, and forced her to the ground, holding her there until police arrived.

Cate, who has worked in the towing industry since 1988 and has operated his own business since 1991, downplayed his actions. Sims strongly disagrees, crediting him with saving her life. Thanks to his quick response, no one inside the store suffered serious injuries.

Source: https://www.yahoo.com/