In a shocking turn of events, eastern Tennessee finds itself grappling with a tragic incident involving the shooting of law enforcement officers. The incident, which occurred during a routine traffic stop, has left the community in sorrow and heightened tensions as the manhunt for the suspect intensifies.
Maryville Officer TN Shooting
Authorities in eastern Tennessee are in pursuit of 42-year-old Kenneth Dehart, the prime suspect involved in the shooting that took the life of Deputy Greg McCowan and left a female officer injured. The incident unfolded during a traffic stop, turning a routine encounter into a heart-wrenching tragedy.
Warrants have been issued for Dehart on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong expressed his grief during a press conference, stating, “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. We had an officer killed tonight.”
Deputy McCowan: A Hero Remembered
Deputy Greg McCowan, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty, began his career in 2020 after graduating from a regional law enforcement training class. Sheriff Berrong shared, “Deputy McCowan was a hero both in life and his death,” highlighting McCowan’s exceptional performance in his training class and his commendable actions in saving a man trapped in a burning vehicle in 2021.
The Manhunt
As the community mourns the loss of Deputy McCowan, law enforcement agencies are tirelessly working to apprehend Kenneth Dehart. The sheriff’s office has issued a reward of over $60,000 for information leading to his arrest. Sheriff Berrong affirmed, “We’re going to get this man off the streets of East Tennessee and put him behind bars.”
Multiple agencies, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, are actively participating in the manhunt. Dehart considered armed and dangerous, has been added to the Most Wanted list by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Authorities warn the public not to approach him if spotted.
Maryville on Edge
Maryville, the city where Dehart was last seen, is on edge as the manhunt unfolds. Situated about 17 miles south of Knoxville, the community is grappling with the shock of the incident and the loss of a dedicated officer. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has called for the public’s assistance, urging anyone with information about Dehart’s whereabouts to come forward.
“This is a critical time for our community. We need the cooperation of the public to ensure the safety of everyone,” said Sheriff Berrong. The city, known for its close-knit community, is now united in the pursuit of justice for Deputy McCowan and the apprehension of the suspect.