Knoxville, TN (WOKI) – The Knox County Sheriff’s Office has taken a wanted suspect into custody following an intensive search connected to an arson investigation that began Wednesday.
According to KCSO, deputies apprehended Lee “Matthew” Wolfe of Knox County late Thursday morning after locating him at the Hampton Inn in the Executive Park area.
Authorities said a BOLO, or “Be On the Lookout” alert, was issued for Wolfe after he allegedly fled the scene on two separate occasions following a domestic dispute. Investigators later obtained warrants and continued efforts to locate him.
Members of the sheriff’s office Echo Shift remained actively involved in the search overnight and into Thursday. At approximately 10:48 a.m., Officer Kaleb Lee located Wolfe at the hotel.
When deputies made contact, officials said Wolfe was armed with a knife, leading to a brief standoff. Deputies worked to de-escalate the situation and safely bring it to a conclusion.
The sheriff’s office reported that Wolfe was ultimately taken into custody without further incident and no injuries were reported during the arrest.
Sheriff Brent Gibson praised the efforts of the deputies involved in the search and arrest.
“Their persistence and professionalism led to the successful apprehension of a suspect connected to a serious investigation,” Gibson said, noting the case reflects the commitment of KCSO personnel to protecting Knox County residents and seeing investigations through to completion.
The arson investigation remains ongoing, and additional details regarding the charges against Wolfe have not yet been released.
Officials encourage anyone with information related to the investigation to contact the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
