Statewide Blue Alert issued for 42-year-old man suspected of shooting two Blount County deputies

A statewide Blue Alert has been issued for a 42-year-old man believed to be responsible for shooting two Blount County sheriff’s deputies on Thursday night, resulting in the death of one deputy.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Blount County Sheriff’s Office are searching for Kenneth Wayne DeHart, a resident of Alcoa. DeHart is wanted on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and felon in possession of a weapon. Authorities have released a statement, urging the public to stay vigilant and report any information regarding DeHart’s whereabouts.

According to the TBI, the incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on February 8. Deputies Greg McCowan and Shelby Eggers conducted a routine traffic stop on an SUV in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road in Maryville. However, DeHart refused to cooperate and exit the vehicle. Despite deploying a Taser, law enforcement was unable to subdue DeHart.

During the encounter, DeHart produced a firearm and opened fire, striking both deputies. Tragically, Deputy McCowan sustained fatal injuries, while Deputy Eggers was shot in the leg. Sheriff James Lee Berrong confirmed the details during an early-morning press conference on February 9.

McCowan was immediately transported to a nearby hospital where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Meanwhile, Eggers received medical treatment for his leg wound and has since been released.

Following the shooting, DeHart fled the scene, prompting a multi-agency manhunt to locate him. Law enforcement agencies are actively searching for DeHart, who was last seen in the 4900 block of Sevierville Road in Maryville.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding DeHart’s whereabouts to contact the Blount County Sheriff’s Office at 865-981-7125 or the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND. A reward of $10,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.

Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. For any tips or information related to this incident, please email liz.kellar@knoxnews.com. Support the cause of local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe.