In Tennessee, newly released body and dash cam footage from a fatal traffic stop sheds light on a tragic incident that unfolded and led to a five-day manhunt. The driver involved, now identified as a man named Kenneth DeHart, faces serious charges relating to the incident.
The video, released by the Blount County Sheriff's Office, captures the initial moments of the encounter. Deputy Shelby Eggers initiates the stop after witnessing DeHart's vehicle crossing the center lane multiple times. She suspects him of driving under the influence and questions him about it, even mentioning a smell of marijuana in the vehicle. DeHart denies the allegations throughout the interaction.
When Deputy Greg McCowan arrives as backup, he attempts to get DeHart to exit the vehicle. However, DeHart refuses and tensions escalate. McCowan resorts to deploying his taser multiple times in an effort to subdue DeHart. The situation quickly escalates when shots are fired during the final taser deployment.
The video captures the chaotic and heartbreaking moment when shots are fired, resulting in McCowan falling to the ground and Eggers being injured. DeHart then flees the scene in the vehicle, allegedly firing back at the officers.
Following the incident, a five-day manhunt ensued, with authorities eventually apprehending and arresting DeHart. He now faces charges including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and possession of a weapon by a felon.
Tragically, Deputy McCowan lost his life in the line of duty during the incident and was laid to rest on Valentine's Day. Deputy Eggers, who was injured in the altercation, received assistance from passing motorists and additional officers who arrived at the scene.
The release of the video serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops and highlights the risks they bravely confront daily to protect the communities they serve.
