Eastern Tennessee’s law enforcement intensifies the search for 42-year-old Kenneth DeHart, accused of the fatal shooting of a sheriff’s deputy and wounding another. Sheriff James Lee Berrong of Blount County announced an increased reward of over $80,000 for information leading to DeHart’s arrest, reflecting the urgency and gravity of the situation.
The tragic incident unfolded during a routine traffic stop, where Deputy Greg McCowan, 43, lost his life, and Deputy Shelby Eggers, 22, sustained injuries but was later released from the hospital. The Blount County Sheriff’s office has since been committed to capturing DeHart, with Sheriff Berrong vowing, “We’re going to get him and he’s going to be brought to justice in Blount County.”
Kenneth DeHart
Authorities have issued warrants for DeHart for first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The confrontation escalated when DeHart, refusing to exit his vehicle during the stop, fired at the deputies, leading to the tragic outcome.
Further developments saw the arrest of DeHart’s brother and the suspect’s girlfriend on charges of accessory after the fact, indicating a broader network of involvement.
The community mourned Deputy McCowan, who joined the force in 2020, with a procession in Maryville, underscoring the loss felt by many.
