Suspect wanted after fatal shooting of deputy and injury of another in Tennessee

MARYVILLE, Tenn. – A man is currently being sought by law enforcement after a shooting Thursday night left one deputy dead and another injured in Tennessee.

Kenneth Wayne Dehart, 42, the suspect, is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities say they are actively searching for him as of Friday morning. A reward of $80,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.

The Blount County Sheriff’s Office says deputy Greg McCowan, 43, died in the line of duty after being shot. Deputy Shelby Eggers, 22, was also shot during the incident but has since been released from the hospital and is recovering, according to authorities.

McCowan began his full-time position with the BCSO in 2020, later earning he Sheriff’s Office Lifesaving commendation for his part in saving a man trapped in a burning vehicle, the sheriff’s office says. Deputies are calling McCowan “a hero both in life and in his death.”

If you have any information about the location of Dehart or have seen or spoken to him since Thursday evening, please call 865-981-7125 or 1-800-TBI-FIND.

The investigation is ongoing.