NC sheriff’s sergeant suffers ‘life-altering’ injuries sledding with his kids
A Gaston County sheriff’s sergeant faces months of rehab after crashing into a metal pole while sledding with his children, according to a GoFundMe established by a colleague.
Casey “Tig” Tignor broke his pelvis and a fibula in his lower leg, sheriff’s Deputy Logan Robinson said on the site. “These injuries will require extensive rehabilitation and a long, difficult recovery,” Robinson wrote.
Tignor also is a longtime operator and medic with the Gastonia Regional SWAT Team, Robinson said.
“Throughout his career, Casey has selflessly put himself in harm’s way to protect others, often running toward danger when others are running away,” Robinson wrote.
The officer was having a friendly sledding competition with his boys, his wife told WBTV.
GoFundMe for officer and family
Tignor is the sole provider for his wife and four boys, Robinson said.
By Saturday, 190 people donated a total of $15,352 toward the $18,000 GoFundMe goal.
The money will help cover Tignor’s lost income, medical and rehabilitation costs, gas to travel to appointments “and everyday living needs,” Robinson said.
“Thank you for standing with the Tignor family during this incredibly difficult time,” he wrote.
This story was originally published January 29, 2026 at 12:15 PM.