Smith County Sheriff’s Office Mourns The Loss Of A Deputy

(Smith County, Texas) The Smith County Sheriff's Office is mourning the death of one of its deputies, who died while performing his duties at the sheriff's office in downtown Tyler on Tuesday.

Deputy Suffers Medical Emergency While on Duty

Smith County Deputy Gerald Atchison Jr. was on the job Tuesday afternoon, working as a Property and Evidence Technician. Around 2 p.m. Tuesday, Atchison suddenly collapsed in the office due to a medical event. Officers around him rushed to his aid and immediately began life-saving measures, including CPR, until paramedics arrived. Deputy Atchison remained unresponsive after being transported by ambulance to the hospital, where he later died.

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More Than Two Decades of Service

Deputy Atchison had more than 20 years of service with the Smith County Sheriff's Office. His career began in 2003 as a Detention Officer in the Smith County Jail. After graduating from the TJC Police Academy in 2005 as a licensed Peace Officer, he worked in the patrol division. Deputy Atchison would eventually work as a criminal investigator, telecommunications operator, and property and evidence technician.

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Funeral Arrangements Announced

According to the sheriff's office, Deputy Atchison is believed to have suffered a massive coronary event and passed at the age of 53. His wife and son survive him. Deputy Atchison's funeral will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at Grace Chapel on Old Jacksonville Highway in Tyler.

Sheriff Larry Smith Remembers Deputy Atchison

During a press conference, Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith says Atchison was great at any job or role he was put in while serving in the department. He is described as being a prankster who lifted the spirits of those around him. He was a great law enforcement officer who will truly be missed.