D4-Detective Matthew Walker Blansett
Matthew Walker Blansett was raised in South Pittsburg, where he actively participated in athletics throughout his school years and continued to maintain his physical fitness by running and working out in his later years. He remained engaged with the athletic community as an alumnus of South Pittsburg.
Growing up in a family-oriented household that emphasized community service, Matt was influenced by his parents’ dedication. His mother, Donna, devoted her career to South Pittsburg Elementary, while his father, Donald, served as the supervisor of the Marion Gas & Water Department and was a county commissioner representing the South Pittsburg district.
Following his family’s tradition of service, Matt began his career as a dispatcher, later transitioning to corrections before completing the Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy. He served as a deputy, where he developed a reputation for effectively apprehending criminals. Matt was also a member of the Special Response Team (SRT) for Marion County, where he led various training sessions.
During his leisure time, Matt dedicated himself to being a loving and devoted husband and father. He had a passion for duck hunting and took pleasure in boating on Lake Nick A Jack, as well as fishing. These activities provided him with valuable moments to share with family and friends, which he cherished above all else.
Matt’s sister, Samantha, running in his memory, at the Annual National Law Enforcement Memorial Race, wearing his SWAT body armor.
After several years, Matt achieved one of his career goals by being promoted to Detective. He also took on the role of county commissioner for the area where he and his wife lived. Aspiring to become sheriff one day, Matt prioritized open communication with employees, encouraging them to share their opinions and ideas. He was known for thoughtfully considering the pros and cons of suggestions and evaluating their feasibility for implementation.
As Detective D4, the fourth detective in his division, Matt worked on a range of cases, including homicides, thefts, drug offenses, and more, collaborating with his peers and often conducting investigations independently.
Matthew was well-known throughout Marion County, where he formed countless enduring friendships. He was a remarkable source of support and joy, consistently standing by his friends in both good times and bad. To describe his influence as significant would be an understatement. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
On September 23, 2022, Matt took a flight in a Tennessee Highway Patrol helicopter piloted by Sgt. Lee Russell. They were conducting aerial sweeps over the county to search for marijuana cultivation and to locate a vehicle associated with several missing persons. Tragically, while returning to Marion County from Hamilton, the helicopter struck power lines in the Aetna Mountain area, resulting in the loss of both men’s lives.
The retirement of “D4” left a profound impact on our department, and those who had the honor of working alongside Matt will forever cherish his memory. We are committed to upholding his legacy, especially for his family, particularly his sons, Maddox and Banks. This page on our website serves as a tribute to that legacy. Detective Matthew Walker Blansett will always be remembered, loved, and deeply missed by all.