COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — Authorities in Cocke County are actively seeking a suspect believed to be linked to a homicide on Sunday morning.
The Cocke County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting incident shortly before noon, allegedly involving 66-year-old suspect David Kite Moore. Reports indicated that Moore was at his residence on Baysinger Road, prompting the establishment of a perimeter by law enforcement.
After hours of negotiations, the Sevierville Police Department was called upon for additional manpower and the utilization of their small drones. However, the drones failed to locate Moore inside the home, leading to the deployment of a SWAT team to breach the residence.
The CCSO disclosed that Moore was not found, suggesting that he had likely fled before officers’ arrival, with his direction of escape remaining unknown.
Authorities have classified Moore as being on foot and potentially armed and dangerous. Individuals who spot him are urged to immediately contact 911.
Local residents have been advised by the sheriff’s office to refrain from approaching Moore and to secure their doors and vehicles. Law enforcement personnel are still active in the area, working to locate Moore.