Tragic Tennessee River Crash Claims Lives of Deputy Robert John “R.J.” Leonard and Detainee Tabitha Smith

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File image of the banks of the Tennessee River. Getty Images

A deputy in Tennessee tragically crashed his vehicle into the Tennessee River after making his first arrest, resulting in the deaths of both himself and the detainee, officials have confirmed.

Meigs County District Attorney Russell Johnson revealed during a press conference held on Thursday afternoon that the deputy’s submerged vehicle was discovered in the Blythe Ferry area of the Tennessee River.

Upon inspection, it was noted that the driver’s side front window was rolled down, and the lifeless body of an individual was found in the backseat, according to Johnson.

Later in the day, officials confirmed the identity of the second body as that of 35-year-old deputy, Robert John “R.J.” Leonard.

Following local reports, the detainee who tragically lost her life in the incident has been identified as Tabitha Smith.

First Arrest

Deputy Leonard had recently completed his training at the academy and had been serving with the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office since December, Johnson disclosed, noting that the arrest he made on Wednesday night, just before 10 p.m., marked his first official apprehension.

The deputy was responding to a call regarding a disturbance on a highway bridge involving a man and a woman.

However, during his return journey to the jail, Leonard ceased responding to status checks.

“There was a sudden call made after approximately a 12-minute silence following his radio communication indicating he was en route back to the jail with a suspect or individual he had arrested, and the only word we could decipher was ‘Water’,” Johnson recounted.

Moreover, Leonard had sent a brief text message to his wife stating “Arrest,” to which she responded positively, but unfortunately, her message did not reach his phone, Johnson added.

“He was Distracted”

The tragic incident occurred near a ferry landing, an area known for its hazardous conditions locally due to a steep hill and a sharp curve, particularly dangerous during nighttime.

Officials highlighted that just last month, another individual had driven into the water in the same vicinity but had managed to survive.

Noting that Leonard was originally from New York and likely unfamiliar with the area, officials speculated that distractions may have played a role in the accident.

“If he was preoccupied by the individual in the backseat, or by adjusting the radio, or even sending a text simultaneously, it is conceivable that he missed the turn and ended up in the water,” stated Johnson.

“We are currently operating under the assumption that this was an unfortunate accident—possibly due to missing his turn, lack of familiarity with the area, and being occupied with other tasks,” he further explained.

This detailed report was compiled from Detroit.