April 6, 2026, marks five years since the loss of Deputy Sheriff Christopher Wilson Knight, who was killed in the line of duty while serving at the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia.

In the early morning hours of April 6, 2021, Deputy Knight was assisting with the movement of a prisoner who had made suicidal statements and required closer observation. As he and another deputy worked to ensure the safety of the individual, the situation quickly escalated into violence. During the struggle, the inmate gained control of Deputy Knight’s knife and used it to attack both deputies.

Deputy Knight was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries approximately one hour later.

At just 30 years old, Deputy Knight had served his community for three years. His willingness to step into a difficult and unpredictable situation reflects the reality of correctional work—where professionals are often called upon to protect not only the public and their fellow staff, but also those in their custody, even in moments of crisis.

Deputy Knight’s loss is a sobering reminder of the risks correctional and law enforcement professionals face every day. What began as an effort to help an individual in distress became a tragic and irreversible loss for his family, his agency, and the entire corrections community.

He is survived by his young daughter, Zemirah Joy Knight, as well as his mother, father, and extended family. While his time in the profession was brief, the impact of his service—and the sacrifice he made—will never be forgotten.

In 2025, the individual responsible pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and aggravated battery and was sentenced to 13 years in prison, followed by 12 years of probation.

Five years later, we pause to remember Deputy Christopher Knight not only for the way he died, but for the way he served—with courage, compassion, and a commitment to duty.

At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, we stand alongside his family, his colleagues, and all those who continue to carry his memory forward.

We remember Deputy Christopher Wilson Knight.
We honor his service.
And we will never forget.