Maryville community remembers police officer Kenny Moats 8 years after his death

MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) – Late Maryville Police Officer Kenny Moats was honored Sunday at his annual memorial ride in Blount County.

Moats died in the line of duty eight years ago, on August 25, 2016.

The Moats family, along with relatives of Tucker Blakely of Knox County and Greg McCowan of Blount County, led the motorcade, which included people from across East Tennessee.

“Our police officers have to deal with so much and we must continue to do everything we can to support them as a community,” said Shaina Kirkland, one of Moats' former colleagues at the Maryville Police Department.

Hundreds of participants gathered at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson to show their support.

“The community support has just been incredible. Every year we've done this, it really shows why this East Tennessee community supports law enforcement,” said event volunteer Nathan Way. “And then a great part of the country that we actually live in.”

Since Moats' death, the event has been held every year to honor him, his family and other first responders who have put their lives on the line.

“It's for the fallen officers. I knew Kenny as a kid. He was a good guy. I knew his family. It's just kind of a good gathering for the community. And just getting everybody involved and seeing what happens, you know, making it a nice day,” said Michael Kennedy, a Maryville resident.

Kennedy knew Moats, as did many of those present.

“Kenny was such a wonderful guy, an incredible colleague. He was always there for you. He always had your back and it's just incredible what I do for him and his honor,” Kirkland said.

Although this day is supposed to be a holiday, it is still an emotional day.

“This is a very emotional thing, you know, especially for the families. But it's about Kenny being with all his friends and family, you know? So we're just celebrating Kenny here,” Kennedy said.

“His family means the world to me and we will do everything we can to continue to support him,” Kirkland said.

Escorts from across East Tennessee also volunteered, including Maryville police and the Knox and Blount County sheriff's offices.

“So it's really just a way for the community to hug the families and show them that we still remember them and support them,” Way said sadly.