Knoxville, TN (WOKI) A Knoxville woman is charged for stealing between $40,000 and $50,000 in scratch-off lottery tickets from her job.
According to charging documents, 35-year-old Siearrah Truhn took and activated the lottery tickets while she was working at a convenience store on Maryville Pike.
A investigation involving the store owner and the Lottery Commission led police to the Kroger on Chapman Highway, where employees told them Truhn had redeemed several thousand dollars in scratched tickets.
Documents indicate the employees kept the tickets and reported it to the lottery commission.
Truhn was charged with theft and computer offenses.
A motorcyclist who was involved in a crash that happened on Sunday evening has died as a result of his injuries.
At around 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to the intersection of Washington Pike and Greenway Drive in front of the Target, where a Harley motorcycle had struck a Chevy SUV. The motorcycle driver, a 51-year-old man, was transported to the UT Medical Center with critical injuries. The victim passed away at UTMC on Wednesday night.
The investigation revealed that the Chevy SUV turned left into the path of the motorcycle, which subsequently struck the SUV. The driver was then thrown into the roadway. The light was green for both the Chevy SUV and motorcycle. Speed or alcohol were also not believed to be contributing factors.
The driver and two passengers in the Chevy sustained minor injuries in the crash. The driver has since been cited for failure to yield. No additional charges have been filed at this time.
The investigation is being led by KPD crash reconstruction personnel. Upon the completion of the investigation, the case file will be turned over to the Knox County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Knox County will host two public information meetings to seek community input on the East Knox Mobility Study. These meetings will help identify key transportation challenges, set priorities, and shape the final recommendations for the study.
The first public information meeting is on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Carter High School. The second meeting is on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gibbs Middle School. Both meetings will discuss the same material.
The public is invited to share their comments virtually via the project website. Feedback is requested in three areas: a public survey, interactive map for transportation concerns and ideas, and an interactive map for project feedback. Each area is designed to gather specific types of information that will help guide our planning process. To participate in the online survey, visit https://engagecdmsmith.com/east-knox-county-mobility/survey.
About the Study: The East Knox County Mobility Study is a community-focused initiative designed to enhance transportation planning for the Gibbs, Corryton, Ritta, Strawberry Plains, and Mascot areas. This study will support the new Comprehensive Land Use and Transportation Plan. The study will integrate transportation best practices and consider all modes of travel. More information on the study can be found at https://engagecdmsmith.com/east-knox-county-mobility.
This past weekend, Knoxville Police Department Organized Crime Unit detectives received information that a subject who was possibly involved in a shooting that happened in Alabama was in the Knoxville area. The subject was identified as Abdul Khalil’Llah, 26 of Anniston, Alabama. OCU detectives were able to determine that Khalil’Llah was wanted out of Georgia for failure to appear on a previous felon in possession of a weapon charge.
On Monday, October 28, 2024, OCU detectives were able to track Khalil’Llah to an AirBnB at 103 Greenbrier Drive, where he and another male were observed entering a vehicle and leaving. The vehicle was eventually stopped in a parking lot near S. Northshore Drive and Baum Drive, where Khalil’Llah and his passenger, Varrenzo Bradford, 26 of Statham, Georgia, were detained. Bradford was found to be in possession of a Glock handgun, methamphetamine, and cocaine. In the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Bradford was also a convicted felon.
Detectives then obtained a search warrant for the home at 103 Greenbrier Drive, which was executed later that day. When the search warrant was executed, a man and woman were found in the home and detained. Neither were charged.
During the search, detectives located two additional firearms and a drum magazine. Khalil’Llah was charged with fugitive from justice for the outstanding warrant out of Georgia. Bradford was charged with felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony. OCU detectives were assisted throughout the day by agents with the A.T.F.
On Tuesday, investigators from Alabama came to Knoxville, where OCU detectives and A.T.F. agents assisted in follow-up investigation and interviews.
Additional charges are pending from the stop and search warrant on Monday, while the investigation into the shooting in Alabama is continuing.
Whenever Dylan Sampson greets fans during the Vol Walk or goes through pregame warmups, he can always be seen donning his signature chain. The neckwear features his initials, jersey number and a small, red rose pendant. The rose is an homage to Tupac Shakur’s famous poem, “The Rose that Grew from Concrete,” which reads as follows.
Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete? Proving nature’s laws wrong, It learned to walk without having feet. Funny it seems, but by keeping its dreams, it learned to breathe fresh air. Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else ever cared.
Sampson says he keeps the chain as a reminder that even when life isn’t perfect, to keep growing and blooming no matter the circumstances. After two seasons forming an elite trio in Tennessee’s running back room, Sampson has taken the reins as the starting back in 2024 and blossomed into one of the top offensive players in the country.
The Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native has grown a lot in his time at Tennessee. His journey began in 2022 when he enrolled early and made an immediate impression on the coaching staff. His speed, explosiveness and playmaking ability were evident from the start, and he quickly caught attention as a rising star. However, just like the rose, Sampson’s path to success wasn’t always smooth.
One of the defining moments in Sampson’s life came in 2016 when his grandfather passed away from cancer. The loss deeply affected Sampson, at one point even debating giving up athletics entirely.
“There were people in my life outside of my original family who were there for me,” Sampson said on healing from his grandfather’s passing. “A lot of people in my summer track program helped shape me into the person I am today. They taught me what it really means to work hard and have fun.”
What went from his lowest moment ended up serving as a catalyst for his determination. He vowed to honor his grandfather’s memory by working hard and striving for excellence.
Sampson’s commitment to his craft is evident in his approach to the game. He is known for his dedication to the weight room, his meticulous preparation and his relentless pursuit of perfection. His coaches and teammates rave about his work ethic and his leadership qualities.
On the field, Sampson is a force to be reckoned with. He possesses a rare combination of speed, power and agility that allows him to make defenders miss and break long runs. His ability to find a crease in the defense and burst through the line of scrimmage is a sight to behold.
After delivering a memorable performance against Alabama, Sampson’s head coach had high praise for his RB1’s efforts against the Crimson Tide.
(The performance) epitomizes him as a competitor. He’s special. He can feel the ability to run, get out in space and get behind his pads… (we) gave him an opportunity to get started and create some plays. Resiliency from him too, he gets banged up a little bit and fumbles early but comes back and keeps competing. Huge part of the game tonight.
Josh Heupel
Through only seven games this season, he has accumulated 838 yards and amassed 17 rushing touchdowns — one shy of the single-season program record for rushing scores set by Gene McEver in 1929. On the Tennessee career charts, Sampson currently sits fourth all time in rushing touchdowns at 30, chasing McEver again who totaled 37 in his time on Rocky Top from 1928-31.
The 2024 season has been a year of dominance for Sampson. He has consistently produced at a high level and established himself as one of the best running backs in the country. Sampson’s ability to make plays in both the running and passing game has made him a valuable asset to this Tennessee offense.
“He’s always had great vision and great pace,” Heupel said of Sampson’s development. “Obviously, he has good long speed and he’s really good between tackles. I think his growth of continuing to understand what we’re doing and physical development, just his strength in the middle of the football field, he’s really strong in between the tackles. He continues to make a bunch of plays for us and finish the game in the right way, which is huge.”
Before his arrival at Tennessee, Sampson made a name for himself as a standout running back at Dutchtown High School in Louisiana. Thanks to his speed and agility, Sampson shattered school records and earned all-state honors. His performances on the football field caught the attention of college coaches across the country, and he ultimately decided to commit to the Volunteers.
The transition from high school to college football can be challenging for even the most talented players. Sampson faced his own set of obstacles as he adjusted to the increased speed and physicality of the game. However, his natural ability and work ethic allowed him to quickly adapt.
In his freshman season, Sampson saw limited playing time but made the most of his opportunities. He showcased his ability to make defenders miss, and he finished the season with several impressive performances.
Sampson’s sophomore season was a real breakout year. He established himself as a key contributor to the Tennessee offense, and he became a fan favorite with his electrifying runs and touchdown celebrations. Sampson’s ability to break tackles and find the end zone made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
While Sampson’s on-field accomplishments are impressive, it’s his character and his commitment to making a difference that truly set him apart. He is a dedicated student, a passionate community advocate and a role model for young athletes.
Sampson is deeply involved in the community. He is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, and he uses his platform to raise awareness about important issues. Sampson believes that athletes have a responsibility to give back and make a positive impact on society.
I want to continue to be a successful football player and give back to the community. I also want to be a role model for young people. I am grateful for the opportunities that I have been given and I want to use my platform to make a positive impact on the world.
Dylan Sampson
Sampson’s story is one of inspiration and perseverance. He has exceeded all expectations and emerged as a national star. But what truly makes him special is his character, his determination and his commitment to making a difference.
Zeigler is one of five players on the first team. The other honorees are Auburn’s Johni Broome, Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr., Alabama’s Mark Sears and Texas A&M’s Wade Taylor IV.
Fourteen of the 15 selections across the three teams are identical to the media vote, with the lone change coming on the third team. Texas’ Tre Johnson made the cut in place of Florida’s Alex Condon.
Zeigler, who hails from Long Island, N.Y., averaged 11.8 points, 6.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game during a stellar junior season in 2023-24. He shot 34.4 percent from deep and posted a 2.79/1 assist-to-turnover ratio, while helping the Volunteers win the SEC regular season title, reach the Elite Eight and finish fifth in the national polls.
A First Team All-SEC choice and SEC Defensive Player of the Year designee from the league’s coaches last year, Zeigler has loaded up on plaudits entering the 2024-25 campaign. He was named a Preseason All-American by both the Blue Ribbon Yearbook (second team) and ESPN’s Jay Bilas (third team), made the Bob Cousy Award Top 20 Preseason Top 20 Watch List and is among the Naismith Trophy Preseason Watch List designees.
Zeigler and No. 12 Tennessee start the regular season Monday at Food City Center, with a 7 p.m. matchup against Gardner-Webb, live on SEC Network+.
To keep up with the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team on social media, follow @Vol_Hoops on Instagram and X/Twitter, as well as /tennesseebasketball on Facebook.
Preseason First Team All-SEC Johni Broome – Auburn Walter Clayton Jr. – Florida Mark Sears – Alabama Wade Taylor IV – Texas A&M Zakai Zeigler – Tennessee
Preseason Second Team All-SEC Jonas Aidoo – Arkansas Johnell Davis – Arkansas Josh Hubbard – Mississippi State Matthew Murrell – Ole Miss Grant Nelson – Alabama
Third Team All-SEC Chad Baker-Mazara – Auburn Alex Condon – Florida Tramon Mark – Texas Collin Murray-Boyles – South Carolina Jaxson Robinson – Kentucky
Preseason SEC Player of the Year Mark Sears – Alabama
The Morristown Police Department enjoyed interacting with all sorts of superheroes, witches, ghosts and many more characters at Boo Fest on Monday. Since Boo Fest is over, that means Halloween is just two days away! Thursday, October 31st our community will see an increase in traffic and pedestrians on sidewalks, in neighborhoods and some stopping on roadways. The Morristown Police Department (MPD) would like to keep this a fun evening for everyone by helping families prepare for the night:
Motorists
· Adjust your speed to accommodate pedestrian traffic.
· Watch for children darting out from parked cars and walking in the roadways, medians, and curbs.
· Watch for children when entering and exiting driveways.
· Watch for children in dark clothing.
· Make sure everyone is buckled up in a moving vehicle.
· Make sure children exit the vehicle on the curb, away from traffic.
Parents
· Make sure an adult or older responsible youth will be accompanying children under the age of 12.
· Plan and discuss trick-or-treat routes.
· Establish a return time.
· Teach children to only stop at homes or apartments that are well-lit, and to never enter a stranger’s home.
· Children should walk on sidewalks, not on the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side facing traffic. They should not run or go through yards where there could be unseen objects or terrain that could cause falls.
· Bags or sacks carried should be light-colored or trimmed with retro-reflective tape if children are allowed out after dark.
· Children walking should carry flashlights, this will help them see and be seen better.
· Pin a slip of paper with the child’s name, address and phone number inside a pocket in case the child gets separated from the group.
· Make sure your children know not to eat candy until it is inspected.
· Inspect all candy; when in doubt, throw it out.
If all safety tips are followed, this should be a great night for the entire family.
Early voting wraps up tomorrow (Thursday) for the 2024 Presidential and Federal / General Election in Tennessee the Knox County Election Commission says a few of the early voting locations aren’t seeing long lines if you still need to cast your ballot.
The Gibbs Ruritan Club, the newest polling location in Knox County, is seeing shorter lines than the Downtown West location which is seeing longer lines and some voters say they’ve waited in line more than hour there but it moves efficiently.
According to the Tennessee Secretary of State website, Knox County is still below 40% voter turnout through early voting which runs through tomorrow. (Thursday)
Early voting data for Tennessee shows over one million seven hundred thousand votes have been cast during early voting.
This number is through Monday with the estimated turnout just over 35%.
By comparison through 11 days of early voting more voters turned out in 2020 but fewer in 2016.
Oliver Springs, TN (WOKI) Oliver Springs’ chief wastewater operator is now facing charges after an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury.
According to the office, Travis Thrasher has been charged and indicted for official misconduct and theft for reportedly using more than $3,400 taxpayer dollars to buy personal items, including tires, gas and more.
Thrasher resigned from his position on September 13; officials say he paid the town a check covering the money he’d spent as “repayment.”
The investigation also revealed that the comptroller’s office had identified another, roughly, $3,000 in “questionable” purchases from town employees to include items such as food, auto parts, gift cards and more that were not properly documented.
“Our investigators identified a number of deficiencies within the town’s operations that must be corrected,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “These include adopting a written credit card policy, maintaining invoices for purchases, and establishing more control over gift cards. The town must also enforce its disconnect policies for water and wastewater service and reconcile bank statements to its general ledger each month.”
The comptroller’s office’s latest investigation centers on Travis Thrasher. (Courtesy: Tennessee Comptroller’s Office)
Erwin, TN (WOKI) Thousands of tons of asphalt and rock later and in just 33 days, connectivity is restored to a small East Tennessee town as a portion of I-26 is reopened Wednesday in Unicoi County.
The small town of Erwin relies on major roads like I-26. Speaking to media Wednesday, Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Butch Eley highlighted why getting this portion open was so important.
“The reality is, this means so much more than the assets that we’re putting in to the ground,” Eley said. “This is about community. This is about connectivity. This is about making sure that our people in this community and those around are able to access the basic needs that they’re trying to get to.”
Eley said one lane of I-26, in each direction, in Erwin is now open to non-commercial traffic. Commercial traffic is still being rerouted to I-81 and I-77. Additionally, wide loads over 12 feet still are not permitted on the interstate.
TDOT officials added crews used more than 5,000 tons of asphalt and 33,000 tons of rock to repair the bridge around exit 37.
Wednesday’s reopening comes after September flooding from Hurricane Helene closed almost 50 thoroughfares across East Tennessee.
TDOT officials give an update on Helene-damaged I-26 in Erwin, Tennessee. (Courtesy: WVLT)
