PRESS RELEASE

January 22, 2025

Assault Arrest after Disturbance and Physical Altercation with Deputies

Etowah County, AL - An Altoona man arrested for Assault 2nd against Law enforcement(x2), and other charges following a disturbance call.

On January 20, 2025, at approximately 11:30 PM, deputies from the Etowah County Sheriff's Office responded to a call regarding a male, who was reportedly causing a disturbance at a residence on Haynes Rd. The responding deputies, along with AMED and the Altoona Fire Department, made contact with a Christopher Nix and a female who reported that Nix had been verbally abusive and struck her with a washcloth.

Upon arrival, deputies attempted to de-escalate the situation. Nix, who was uncooperative and hostile, was asked to comply with instructions for safety reasons and to allow deputies to conduct their investigation. Nix resisted arrest and threatened deputies, if they attempted to place him in handcuffs. After repeated failure to comply with commands, deputies deployed tasers in an effort to subdue him.

Despite being struck by the taser, Nix continued to resist arrest, physically fighting with deputies and attempting to discard a deputy's radio. After a brief struggle, deputies were able to successfully handcuff and detain Nix.

Nix and the deputies involved were treated at the scene by EMS and transported to Gadsden Regional Medical Center for further evaluation. Following treatment, Nix was transported to the Etowah County Detention Center and charged with multiple offenses, including assault and resisting arrest. Nix's total bond was set at $7,000.

Both deputies received treatment for injuries and are back at work.

The Etowah County Sheriff's Office remains committed to responding effectively and safely in situations involving individuals with mental health concerns. The agency's deputies receive specialized training in crisis intervention and mental health response, allowing them to better handle situations involving individuals in emotional or mental distress.