A 63-year-old man's routine protest at a war memorial in Crossville, Tennessee, turned deadly when his offensive gestures sparked a confrontation that ended in his death.
According to NBC News, Albert Sturgill Jr. was shot in the neck on August 22 after displaying his middle finger to American flags and monuments at Cumberland County Veterans Memorial Park.
The incident began around 5:30 p.m. when Sturgill, known locally for his anti-government demonstrations, was pacing and making obscene gestures at the memorial site. His actions drew attention from passing motorists, causing traffic to slow and eventually leading to a confrontation with three men.
Confrontation Escalates Beyond Verbal Exchange
Eric Garrison, 42, approached Sturgill first, expressing his displeasure about the disrespectful behavior toward military monuments. A second man, identified as a former Marine Corps member, joined the confrontation and began cursing at Sturgill.
The situation intensified when Garrison noticed Sturgill holding a wooden stick, which family members later explained was used as a walking aid due to his prosthetic foot. A physical altercation ensued when Garrison attempted to take the stick away from Sturgill.
Witnesses reported that Sturgill struck Garrison multiple times with the stick, causing head injuries that required medical attention. The confrontation continued to escalate as more people gathered around the scene.
Critical Moments Before the Shooting
Video footage captured Sturgill backing away from three men who continued to advance toward him. Garrison briefly left the scene and returned with a firearm, despite his wife's attempts to physically restrain him.
Chelsey Garrison, Eric's wife, desperately tried to prevent the shooting by wrapping her arms around her husband. Police sirens could be heard approaching the scene as the confrontation reached its peak.
The fatal shot was fired after Sturgill pushed away one of the other men, with video showing him falling to his knees before collapsing face-down. The three men then walked away from the scene.
Complex Background Reveals Deeper Issues
Crystal Sturgill, the victim's niece, explained that her uncle's actions stemmed from personal disappointments and possible mental health challenges. His inability to join the military due to failed entrance exams had left him bitter and resentful.
Sturgill was a familiar figure in the community, often seen riding his bicycle with his beloved German shepherd mix, Do. Local business owner and Vietnam veteran Larry Doster acknowledged Sturgill's frequent protests but defended his right to express himself.
The incident has divided the community, with some supporting Garrison's actions while others condemn the use of deadly force. The shooting has sparked discussions about free speech, respect for military monuments, and appropriate responses to provocative behavior.
Fatal Encounter Leads to Legal Proceedings
Eric Garrison now faces second-degree murder charges and is being held on a $1 million bond. His defense team is exploring a self-defense argument, citing the head injuries he sustained during the altercation.
The Crossville Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls about the fight, arriving at approximately 5:42 p.m. Sturgill was taken to the hospital but was removed from life support on August 24 due to a lack of brain activity.
The case continues to generate controversy as the community grapples with questions about free speech limits and appropriate responses to provocative behavior at military memorials. A memorial service for Sturgill is scheduled for September 13, where family and friends will remember the man known for his distinctive presence in their small Tennessee city.
