A Sevierville man injured during an arrest in Blount County earlier this week has died, the family's attorney confirmed Thursday afternoon.
His family previously told 10News they believed the deputy used excessive force while trying to arrest Anthony Edwards early Monday morning.
"Our Firm is currently conducting an investigation into this young man's encounter with law enforcement which has ultimately resulted in his unfortunate death," attorney Troy L. Bowlin, II said in a statement.
Bowlin said Edwards was pronounced brain dead on Wednesday and the family has worked to ensure his desire to have his organs donated was successful.
"The family is deeply saddened by the loss of their, son, father, friend, and brother and we are all confident that our investigation will conclude what truly transpired between Mr. Edwards and the Blount County Sheriff’s Office on this unforgettable summer night," Bowlin added.
It was near the intersection of Winchester Drive and Patterson Road in northeast Blount County where Anthony Edwards and his friend were walking, around 1 a.m. Monday.
A Blount County Sheriff's Office spokesperson said officials received and responded to a call about suspicious people in that area. When Deputy Jerry Burns arrived on the scene, according to the BCSO, he stopped and questioned the two men.
"When asked, Edwards gave Deputy Burns a false name and date of birth," a BCSO release said. "As Deputy Burns attempted to pat Edwards down for safety, he fled."
Burns chased him, and tried - unsuccessfully - to use a TASER on Edwards.
When the deputy finally managed to catch Edwards, according to the release, Edwards "continued to fight and kicked another deputy, striking him in the groin."
"Deputy Burns took Edwards to the ground, and as they came down, Edwards hit his head on the pavement," the BCSO release said.
The deputies then noticed Edwards was having trouble breathing, and he was taken by LIFESTAR helicopter to UT Medical Center, where his family took photos of his injuries.
Family members weren't available for an on-camera interview Tuesday but told 10News, "We are not here to question whether he was guilty or innocent. Or ran or stood still."
"We are just wanting to let people know that we are now waiting for his heart to stop beating because there was too much force used when he was arrested," family spokesperson Nikki Eldridge said.
Edwards had a warrant out for his arrest, according to the Blount County Sheriff's Office, for probation violation on charges of domestic violence and vandalism in Sevier County.
The BCSO is currently reviewing video of the incident. The office declined 10News' request for an on-camera interview Tuesday, saying, "the evidence will speak for itself."
None of the BCSO deputies involved are currently suspended, a spokesperson said. They continue to work their regular shifts.