JOHNSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) – Johnson County Sheriff Edward Tester has died, according to the sheriff’s office.

Tester passed away Friday after being transported to a local hospital by ambulance, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office said.

“This has been such a devastating time for Sheriff Tester’s family and friends and the entire Johnson County Sheriff’s Office,” a release from the sheriff’s office states.

The release states Tester passed away “unexpectedly.”

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office reports arrangements will be announced in the near future.

“We appreciate the time that everyone can allow the family and friends to grieve and mourn,” the release states. “Sheriff Tester will be sorely missed as the Sheriff of Johnson County.”

Several other area law enforcement agencies have offered their condolences over social media. Agencies in Carter County, Greene County, Jonesborough, Mountain City, Sullivan County and Washington County, Virginia expressed their remorse at hearing of Tester’s passing.

Johnson County Mayor Larry Potter, told News Channel 11 that his heart goes out to Tester’s wife, everyone from the first responders, EMS, and the law enforcement.

“It’s tough and the county needs a lot of prayers right now,” Potter said.

Tester was elected sheriff in 2018 and was re-elected to a second term in August 2022.