Terrifying moment sheriff's deputy is beaten into critical condition on live TV show after suspect turned on him
A sheriff's deputy who was being filmed on the job for a television show was brutally beaten by the same man he was trying to track down.
'On Patrol: Live' captured the horrendous attack on Tennessee officer Dalton Swanger during Saturday night's broadcast.
The Knox County deputy was left in a critical condition after the violent crime, which took place while he was responding to a shooting in a nearby neighborhood.
The officers were tracking 44-year-old suspect Christopher Hensley on Saturday as they took part in the broadcast, which follows officers on duty as they carry out their work.
Hensley drew the officers into a dark wooded area behind a residential block.
Deputy Swanger walked blindly into the darkness with his own weapon drawn, but moments later video cut to Swanger limp and laying on his side.
It's understood the suspect allegedly struck the officer in the face with either a brick or a rock.
Co-host of the show, Tom Rizzo, said 'the entire studio went silent as we watched what happened next.'
'His mates dragging him to safety to render aid… as Dalton tried to regain his feet, says, ''I'm going to be heavy''.'
In the distressing footage, two of Swanger's colleagues hold his arms as he is dragged, semi conscious and on his back, out of harms way.
They tried to help him to his feet as blood pooled at his head.
'This was yet another example of an attack on the uniform…no care/concern otherwise for the person wearing it,' Rizzo said.
'The fellow officers have to then regain composure after their brother officer is taken to a trauma center…press reset…do the job.'
Swanger sustained critical head injuries and still remains in the trauma intensive care unit, his police department said in a statement on Tuesday.
His condition is critical but stable, and visits have been restricted to encourage rest.
'Deputy Swanger continues to improve, making minor yet significant improvements. This healing journey will take time, patience, and continued fervent prayer,' they said.
Deputy Swanger walked blindly into the darkness with his own weapon drawn, but moments later video cut to Swanger limp and laying on his side
A GoFundMe has been set up to help his family with a note that he is now unable to work 'his second job' to provide for his family.
The suspect was ultimately arrested and charged with attempted second degree murder, aggravated assault on a first responder, possession of a firearm with intent to go armed and manufacturing, delivering, selling, possession of a controlled substance.
Sheriff Tom Spangler said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Swanger and his family during this challenging time. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this matter and are utilizing all available resources.
'I am at the hospital with Deputy Swanger and asking our community to do what they do best, pray!'
Hensley's bond was set at $2.025million and he will next appear in court on August 20.
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