Weapons secured after search. Photo provided.
On September 4, 2025, at approximately 7 PM, Pikeville Police Officer Matt Brock was alerted by three juveniles on Main Street that an unknown male had brandished an AR-style gun at them near the McDonald’s. The juveniles pointed out that a vehicle traveling south on Main Street was involved in the incident.
Officer Brock followed the vehicle until the driver abruptly entered the Venue parking lot. The driver exited his vehicle, with it still running, and fled on foot. Officer Brock was able to apprehend the individual, who was later identified as William S. Cornett from Warren County, Tennessee.
Cornett appeared to be under the influence of Methamphetamine and, as a result, was detained for further investigation.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, a clear plastic bag containing a white crystal-like substance was discovered in the driver’s seat. The substance, weighing approximately 6.3 grams, tested presumptively positive for Methamphetamine.
Additionally, a syringe, a .243 Savage Arms bolt-action rifle, and an AR-style air rifle were found in the vehicle.
As a result of the investigation, Cornett was charged and taken into custody at the Bledsoe County Jail on multiple charges, including 3 counts of Aggravated Assault, Driving on a Revoked License, Driving while in possession of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of Methamphetamine over .5 grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
