The Knox County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a possible car burglary in the 3500 block of Wexgate Road in the Karns Community shortly after midnight on November 13, 2023. Upon arrival, Officers confronted two suspects – at least one of the suspects fired at the Officers; Officers returned fire. The suspects fled on foot – it is unknown if either suspect was injured. KCSO’s airwatch unit, drone team, S.W.A.T & negotiations teams were called to the scene to assist in the search for the suspects.
Two male suspects remain at large – both wearing dark hoodies, possibly in their early 20s; one male was wearing jeans and the other khaki pants/shorts, according to nearby camera footage.
Detectives are asking anyone with information to call 865-215-2243 and as for Major Crimes. Tipsters can remain anonymous. Oak Ridge Highway is reopened.
We will update as more information becomes available.
This is all the information we have at this time – Detectives will continue to review any available video for a more accurate description. Residents in the area should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to E-911. The investigation is ongoing.
On July 20, 1985 the burned body of Betty Joyce Brown,aka Simmons, was found in the woods at 3805 Maloney Road in South Knox County. The 29 year old Austin-East graduate had been stabbed before being burned. Ms. Brown was last seen on July 14, 1985 between midnight and 1:00am in front of the Bread Box at Magnolia Ave and Spruce Street. It is believed that Ms. Brown was offered and accepted a ride from an unknown subject. Ms. Brown’s last know address was 2737 Tarleton Ave. Initial investigation indicated that when Ms. Brown’s body was found, she had been dead approximately 1 week. Family members described Ms. Brown as being a “very sweet and loving mother.”
If you have any information please call the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit at (865)-215-3520/3590 or e-mail coldcase@knoxsheriff.org.
