July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
July 4 Travelers in Tennessee Won’t be Delayed by Construction
Lane Closures Halted for Independence Day Holiday
NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
An Investigation is Underway in North Knoxville Following a House Fire
At 3:49pm Wednesday, the neighbors of 5201 Camelia Dr called 911 to report that the house was on fire. When Knox County Communications dispatched the KFD units, they reported that fire was coming out of the front window.
Crews arrived within minutes and saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the front of the home. Squad 14 was able to make quick entry and knock the fire down within minutes. Crews are still on scene overhauling and cleaning up. Fortunately, the fire was able to be extinguished quickly, the hot days can present additional challenges. Thankfully there was no one home at the time of the fire.
There are no injuries reported.
Investigators are on scene trying to determine a cause.
2 Bat Chiefs
2 Engines
1 Squad
1 Ladder
1 Rescue
1 Ambulance
18 total members
FORMER OAK RIDGE POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT CHARGES
Clinton, Tennessee – An Anderson County Grand Jury have returned indictments against Zachary Gauthier, age 34, on 23 counts of Official Misconduct. This matter arose from complaints within the police department. The Oak Ridge Police Department contacted District Attorney General Clark for an independent investigation of the allegations. Following that investigation, the case was presented to the Anderson County Grand Jury which has returned indictments against the Defendant. Gauthier is no longer employed at the Oak Ridge Police Department and was terminated prior to the Grand Jury indictments.
The charges of Official Misconduct are categorized as an E felony. Defendant has been booked into the Anderson County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
District Attorney General Dave Clark said “it is a sad day when a law enforcement officer has to be charged with a crime. But, it should also be recognized that it is good that police agencies demand as much or more from their officers as they do the public.”
The following statement can be attributed to Oak Ridge Police Chief Robin Smith on behalf of the Oak Ridge Police Department:
The Oak Ridge Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, values, and integrity. In light of the recent indictments returned by the Anderson County Grand Jury against former officer Zachary Gauthier, I want to make clear that our department took prompt and appropriate action as soon as we became aware of the allegations.
Based on the findings of an internal investigation into allegations of unbecoming conduct, Zachary Gauthier was terminated immediately on April 24, 2025.
Following our internal review, the matter was referred to the District Attorney General’s Office for independent investigation. That investigation led to the charges now pending against Gauthier. He was no longer employed by the Oak Ridge Police Department at the time the indictments were returned.
While we cannot comment further on the specifics of the legal proceedings, we want to assure the public we take these matters seriously and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that guide our service to this community.
We support the justice system’s responsibility to uphold the law, and we believe that public trust depends on holding both ourselves and others to the highest ethical standards.
Foundation Pays Off Mortgage for Family of Tucker Blakely, Fallen Tennessee Deputy Sheriff
(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Knoxville, TN (WVLT) The family of Tucker Blakely, a fallen Tennessee deputy sheriff, received a life-changing gift this week from the Tunnel To Towers Foundation.
The mortgage on their family home was paid off and Tucker Blakely’s wife, Katarina Blakely, said “Having our mortgage paid off means we can continue to celebrate holidays and life in the home Tucker and I built together – small, modest, but full of love; same as our family,”
Katarina Blakely said her husband’s legacy was to fuel the light of others and that he was happiest when he saw those he loved succeed.
“Deputy Blakely spent his life making an impact on his country as a medic, and his community as a deputy. His life was senselessly cut short while answering a call for help. He continued to save lives even after his passing as an organ donor. We are honored to keep our promise to honor America’s heroes by ensuring the families they leave behind will always have a place to call home,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.
Blakely was just 29 when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 2, 2023.
The KCSO honors his memory every year with the ‘Tucker Blakely Memorial Award’ given to one officer in the patrol graduating class who demonstrates the fallen deputy’s values of character, altruism, benevolence and professionalism.
Morgan County DA: Head-On Crash with Nursing Home Van Kills Two
Morgan County, TN (WOKI) Two people are dead following a head-on collision between a nursing home van and a car Wednesday morning in Morgan County.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson says the crash happened on Knoxville Highway, between Oliver Springs and Coalfield and that the two people killed included the resident who was being transported.
Two other people in the van were hurt in the crash. Johnson says another car, which police believe had been driving erratically leading up to the crash, hit the van head-on.
The van belonged to Life Care Center of Morgan County. According to the center’s website, the nursing home is located in Wartburg and has been in operation since 1980.
Oak Ridge Man Charged after Brake-Checking Police Officer on Pellissippi Parkway, Report Says
Knoxville, TN (WOKI) An Oak Ridge man is arrested this week after repeatedly brake-checking a marked police car on Pellisippi Parkway.
According to charging documents, Kevin Webb was arrested just after 11:30 Monday night for reckless driving.
Webb allegedly repeatedly engaged the parking brake while driving at a high speed, nearly causing a crash between Webb and the arresting officer, L. Sanchez.
“As both vehicles continued traveling north, the suspect continued engaging and disengaging the parking brake several times nearly causing a collision with my marked patrol car several times,” said Officer L. Sanchez.
The police report states Webb claimed he engaged and disengaged his parking brake to “get the car to back off due to the headlights of the vehicle.”
Officer Sanchez said “The maneuvers made by the suspect exhibited a willful disregard for the safety of others and property.”
Webb was taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Augusta Quarry Reopens After Renovation, Search for Missing Swimmer Scaled Back
Wednesday, the City of Knoxville announced that Augusta Quarry would reopen to the public. It comes after a lengthy renovation and not long after a missing swimmer, who still has not been found, prompted a search effort from the Knoxville Fire Department.
The city closed the quarry in March of 2024 to carry out an extensive renovation project, which added new floating platforms, bathrooms, changing rooms and a walkway around the quarry.
On June 16, the Knoxville Fire Department announced it was on the lookout for a man who disappeared while swimming at Augusta Quarry while it was still closed. The search has since been scaled back; the person has not been found.
Wednesday, Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks told WVLT News that crews wouldn’t be at the quarry consistently, but people may see them doing the occasional shore search for the missing man or doing training exercises.
The additions to Augusta Quarry are aimed at making it easier to access and safer.
“Augusta Quarry didn’t even open to the public until 2017,” Urban Wilderness Coordinator Wes Soward said. “Even then, it was a raw experience. You’d have to make your way down a rutted old gravel quarry road, and parking was severely limited, so it was challenging just to get to the water. Now, it’s a safer environment, and a lot more family-friendly.”
Soward added that the city’s agreement with River Sports Outfitters, who will be an on-site vendor, means that life jackets will be available to borrow for free. Other watersports equipment, like paddleboards and inflatable tubes, will be offered to rent.
Other additions include:
- Three bathrooms
- A changing room
- A water bottle refilling station
- An outdoor shower
- A path connecting a 38-vehicle parking lot with the overlook, trailheads, the new buildings and the water’s edge
- A floating “beach” platform at the end of the walkway, lining the quarry lake’s southwestern edge, with ladders
- A circular floating swim platform, also with ladders
- An expanded overlook
The quarry will be open from 7:45 a.m. each day and close at 8 p.m. There will be staff there from 10 a.m. to close, but no lifeguards.
Story courtesy of WVLT news
Knox County has Spent Almost $130K This Year Housing ICE Inmates
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Knox County’s agreement with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has cost taxpayers almost $130,000 since January, according to invoices obtained by WVLT News.
It’s all part of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s agreement with the federal agency, which tasks the county with holding immigration inmates for ICE as they move across the country. Those inmates aren’t in Knox County long — usually only a handful of days — but the costs are adding up.
The agreement is also voluntary, and the office has no legal requirement to house detainees for ICE.
What are KCSO’s responsibilities under the agreement with ICE?
Knox County participates in the 287(g) program, which offers federal dollars in exchange for helping ICE enforce U.S. immigration laws. Knox County’s agreement follows the Jail Enforcement Model, meaning the jail is often housing inmates brought from across the country, not necessarily inmates from Knox County or even Tennessee.
Under the contract, ICE is responsible for training Knox County personnel how to handle immigration detainees. Other than that, it’s up to Knox County to pay for all other expenses, like salaries, transportation, equipment and jail supplies used to carry out the contract.
Does Knox County make money from the contract?
ICE pays the county a fee for each day they house an inmate, but KCSO told WVLT News the fee doesn’t cover the cost of keeping the inmates in the jail.
The sheriff’s office’s public information officer, Kimberly Glenn, provided some numbers from the office’s finance department. She said it costs, on average, around $140 per day to house an inmate in Knox County’s jail. The latest 287(g) agreement promises the county $114 per day, per inmate: a net-negative of $26.
Glenn also confirmed to WVLT News that the sheriff’s office also technically loses money for each inmate, saying “a small amount, yes.”
On top of that, the invoices show the latest agreement only went into place in March. Before then, the sheriff’s office was only getting $83 per day, per inmate.
The difference in cost, Glenn said, comes from KCSO’s adopted budget. According to those invoices, the last few months of costs to the county have broken down like this:
Cost to Knox County for housing ICE inmates
The difference between how much ICE pays Knox County to house inmates and how much it costs to house those inmates.
It totals to $159,676 in taxpayer dollars being spent on housing ICE detainees since October. The county spent $128,212 of that just this year.
The total cost of housing inmates comes from KCSO’s adopted budget, Glenn said, and the money from ICE goes into the county’s general fund.
She also said Sheriff Tom Spangler had no plans to discontinue the contract.
Immigration detainee numbers are on the rise
Knox County’s immigration detainee numbers have spiked in the last several months. Records obtained by WVLT News showed that Knox County booked 60 immigration detainees in October of 2024. In April, that number had jumped to almost 400.
In January, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler addressed the spike, saying it was due to an increase in nationwide immigration enforcement.
“There has been a recent ‘increase’ in our ICE hold numbers- KCSO’s Corrections Division has a contract to house inmates for ICE just as we do for the US Marshals,” Spangler said at the start of the year. “The recent increase in numbers is due to housing ICE inmates who are being transported from one location to another.”
Most inmates only spend a few days in the jail before being handed back over to ICE. The data showed that most inmates in recent months have spent a week or less in Knox County’s jail.
Glenn also said there are no worries about the increase in detainees putting strain on the sheriff’s office’s budget. +
How could a new Tennessee law change the numbers?
A new state law signed by Gov. Bill Lee in February that went into effect on July 1 has set the stage for funneling state dollars to local governments who participate in 287(g) contracts.
SB 6002/HB 6001 requires the state to establish an account to fund grants that will be dolled out to agencies helping ICE. Those dollars will be restricted, and will only fund training, equipment and activities related to immigration enforcement.
Any local government that receives the grant will also have to report to the state how the money is being spent and what impact the bump in immigration enforcement has had on local crime.
There’s no word on how much each grant will be.
Story courtesy of WVLT
TENNESSEE HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE PROMOTES “SAFE ON SEVENTY” CAMPAIGN
TENNESSEE – During Independence Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will join Tennessee Highway Patrol and local law enforcement for “Safe on Seventy,” a campaign to increase traffic enforcement across U.S. Highway 70 statewide. U.S. Highway 70 stretches from West to East Tennessee spanning 500 miles across 21 counties, including Davidson County, Dickson, Cheatham, Wilson, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, DeKalb, Cumberland, Roane, Loudon, Knox, Sevier, Jefferson, and more.
“The purpose of ‘Safe on Seventy’ is to raise awareness and reduce traffic fatalities,” said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. “All we ask is for voluntary compliance. Obey the traffic laws, and help us keep the roadways safe.”
From 12pm on July 3 to midnight on July 6, agencies participating in “Safe on Seventy” will collaborate to combat impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, and other high-risk driving behaviors. Participating agencies will also increase seat belt enforcement and commercial vehicle safety.
The THSO encourages the following safe driving behaviors:
- Buckle up and ensure all child passengers are properly restrained.
- Never drink and drive. Always find a sober ride.
- Rest well prior to driving long distances.
- Avoid texting, social media use, video-chatting, and other forms of distracted driving.
- Slow down and adhere to traffic signs and signals.
For more information and safe driving tips, please visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.
