JOHNSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The case against a man accused of opening fire on a Johnson County deputy is advancing as prosecutors aim for a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Joey Ponce, who was apprehended following the incident, faces serious allegations after a high-stakes pursuit in April left both him and a deputy injured.

During the confrontation, Ponce allegedly shot at the deputy, prompting law enforcement officers to return fire, resulting in injuries to Ponce as well. This violent exchange has led to a slew of charges against him.

In a May revelation, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation announced that Ponce is facing two counts of attempted first-degree murder. Additionally, he has been charged with evading arrest, possessing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and possession of stolen property.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains focused on the trial’s outcome, reflective of the broader concerns about law enforcement safety and criminal accountability.

On Monday, the district attorney’s office informed News Channel 11 that a notice of intent had been filed, which is required by law if prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty or life without parole.

The State of Tennessee is seeking a sentence of life in prison without parole for Ponce for the first-degree attempted murder.