Knox Pride center closed after ‘security incident’ with armed person

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Knox Pride, a leading Knoxville LGBTQ+ organization, reported a “security incident” at the group’s community center Thursday involving an armed person. The center has closed for the rest of the day.

“While we are okay, the safety of our community is always our top priority,” Knox Pride’s announcement said. “We understand this may cause concern or inconvenience, but remember that we appreciate your patience and support.”

Knoxville Police Department Communications Manager Scott Erland had more information. He said officers responded to Sam Duff Memorial Park to find a man, believed to be homeless, with two knives. The officers told the man he had been trespassed from both Sam Duff Memorial Park and Knox Pride, and released him from the scene.

The center is expected to be open Friday.

Knox Pride offers services and hosts events for those across the Knoxville community. Those resources include a community pantry, life skills classes and support groups. The group has faced its own share of struggles, however, including cancelling 2025’s Pride festival and parade.