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TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

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TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

TBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in Cocke County

Cocke County, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway following an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning in Cocke County.

Officials with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say preliminary information indicates deputies with the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office saw a vehicle, just before 1:00 a.m., being driven by a person known to have an outstanding warrant.

TBI says when deputies tried to pull the car over, the driver refused to stop, leading police on a chase to the 1700 block of Neddy Mountain Road in Del Rio where, for reasons still under investigation, deputies fired shots that struck the driver while attempting to take the person into custody.

The suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. Neither the suspect nor the officer has been identified.

Following the shooting, the suspect was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Courtesy: TBI)
Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office Investigates ’Potentially Contaminated’ Halloween Candy

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) An investigation is underway in Sevier County following several reports of ’potentially contaminated’ candy being handed out on Halloween.

Officials with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office say several social media posts have circulated, alleging candy laced with THC and Fentanyl was handed out to children. The contaminated candy was reportedly handed out in the Majestic Meadows Subdivision.

SCSO says it has reached out to multiple medical facilities to find potential victims. As of now, no patients have been found or hospitalized due to contaminated candy.

SCSO says it‘s unable to verify the accuracy of social media rumors. Police are urging anyone with additional information regarding the reports to contact the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sevier County Sheriff‘s Office said they’ve received several reports of contaminated candy distributed on Halloween. (Courtesy: WVLT)
November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

November 5, 2024 Election: Statistics at the End of Early Voting in Knox County

Knoxville (WOKI / Knox County Election Commission) – Thursday, October 31st marked the end (fourteen days) of early voting for the November 5, 2024 Presidential and Federal/State General Election.

A total of 163,303 early votes have been cast in Knox County, with an additional 7,503 votes cast by absentee ballot and in nursing homes.

There are 336,151 registered voters (318,311 active; 17,840 inactive) in Knox County as of October 23, 2024.

COMPARISON TO PRIOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AT CONCLUSION OF EARLY VOTING

November 2024:

  • 163,303                                 early votes cast
  • 7,503                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast (thus far)             
  • TBD                                        Election Day votes cast     
  • TBD                                        TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2024 election

November 2020:

  • 153,197                                 early votes cast
  • 21,241                                    absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 47,950                                    Election Day votes cast
  • 222,028                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2020 election

November 2016:

  • 135,760                                 early votes cast
  • 6,194                                      absentee & nursing home votes cast
  • 42,969                                   Election Day votes cast
  • 184,923                                 TOTAL VOTES CAST in November 2016 election

NEW VOTERS

A total of 23,415 first-time Knox County voters cast a ballot in early voting.

CITY OF KNOXVILLE VOTERS VS. KNOX COUNTY VOTERS

  • City of Knoxville voters                                         50,373
  • Non-City of Knoxville voters                               120,433

AGE INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY AGE

  • Age 18 to 29                         64,173  
  • Age 30 to 44                         90,364  
  • Age 45 to 54                         50,570   
  • Age 55 +                                131,044

VOTES CAST BY AGE

GENDER INFORMATION

REGISTERED VOTERS BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       140,524
  • Female                  165,942
  • Unknown                 29,685

EARLY VOTES CAST BY GENDER**

** Not all voter’s genders are known, as the federal voter registration form does not ask for gender.

  • Male                       65,627
  • Female                  82,873
  • Unknown               22,306

VOTES CAST BY TENNESSEE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT

  • District 14              34,151  
  • District 15              13,162  
  • District 16              26,339  
  • District 18              26,836
  • District 19              25,326  
  • District 89              27,937  
  • District 90              17,055  

VOTES CAST BY CITY OF KNOXVILLE COUNCIL DISTRICT

  • District 1                  6,176  
  • District 2                11,335  
  • District 3                  9,152  
  • District 4                10,889
  • District 5                  7,065  
  • District 6                  5,756  
Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

Knoxville Police Investigating Fourth Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Less Than Two Weeks

A 20-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle crash that happened on Western Avenue Thursday night.

At around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Knoxville Police Department officers responded to Western Avenue at Sullivan Road, where a motorcycle had struck a pickup truck. The motorcycle driver was transported from the scene to the UT Medical Center in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later.

It is believed that the motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue at extremely high speeds when it collided with the pickup truck, which was turning from Sullivan Road onto Western Avenue.

The crash remains under active investigation by KPD crash reconstruction personnel.

Thursday’s crash marks the fourth fatal motorcycle crash in Knoxville city limits since October 22, when a 53-year-old man died in a motorcycle crash on Middlebrook Pike. A 55-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on W. Martin Mill Pike on October 28, while a 51-year-old man passed away on Wednesday night after being involved in a motorcycle crash at Washington Pike and Greenway Drive on October 27.

The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to always drive carefully, responsibly and safely. Slow down, pay careful attention at all times while driving, obey all traffic signals and laws, and buckle up.

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Townsend Restaurant Destroyed by Fire

Fire Crews on the scene of a fire at the Trailhead Steak and Trout House in Townsend in the 7800 block of East Lamar Alexander Parkway.

The building fully engulfed in flames at 5:30 this (Friday) morning but fire fighters have most of the fire out but embers remain so Crews are remaining on the scene to continue monitoring the scene.

The building appears to be a total loss, parts of the building are burned to the ground. Authorities are asking you to avoid this area as emergency crews are still on the scene.

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Lady Vols Soar Past Eagles In Exhibition, 135-49

Eric TrainerWomen’s BasketballOctober 31, 2024

Box Score KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Lady Vols forced 43 turnovers on 30 steals, hit 19 three-pointers and eclipsed 30 points in every quarter en route to a 135-49 exhibition win over Carson-Newman in Kim Caldwell‘s debut as Tennessee’s head coach.  

With an announced crowd of 9,613 looking on at Food City Center, the Big Orange tied for the second-highest exhibition game point total in program history. Standing first on the list is a 144-52 win over Dynamo Kiev on Nov. 5, 2000, and tonight’s output matched a 135-55 UT triumph over Carson-Newman on Nov 6, 2008. The only better production from Tennessee women’s basketball all-time came via a 136-26 regular-season blowout of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez on Nov. 29, 2002.

Junior guard Ruby Whitehorn was sensational in leading six Big Orange players in double figures, firing in 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting. Fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and junior forward Zee Spearman contributed 17 each, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper, junior forward Sara Puckett and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd chipped in 16, 14 and 13, respectively. Spear finished five of 11 beyond the arc, while Whitehorn was four of six from deep.

Cooper also led Tennessee with eight steals, while Boyd was tops in rebounds with seven and senior guard Samara Spencer dished out eight assists with no turnovers in her debut. UT finished with 26 assists on 49 buckets, committing only nine turnovers on the night.

Carson-Newman, picked to win NCAA Division II’s South Atlantic Conference, was led by Jennifer Sullivan with 15 points. 

Tennessee jumped out to a 6-0 lead on back-to-back three-pointers by Whitehorn and Spear and carried a 10-5 into the first-quarter media break, as the Lady Vol defense hurried the Lady Eagles into 2-for-12 shooting during the early going. UT bounced out of the timeout huddle with spring in its step, outscoring C-N the rest of the period with a 25-3 push that included 22 straight points at one point. Whitehorn finished 5 of 7 for 13 points in the frame.

The Lady Vols extended their lead to 47-19 by the second quarter media timeout at the 4:57 mark, with the home team shooting 70 percent from the field over that span. Tennessee forced Carson-Newman into six turnovers as it stretched its margin to 28. Over the final minutes of the first half, Tennessee outscored the Lady Eagles, 17-4, to take a 64-23 lead into the intermission. Cooper and Whitehorn tallied 10 and nine points in the period, respectively, and Cooper’s five steals helped UT force 14 C-N turnovers by the end of the quarter and key a 19-0 run in that stanza as well.

Carson-Newman scored 12 points on 55.6-percent shooting by the third-quarter media break, but the Lady Vols countered with 20 of their own on 57.1 percent accuracy during that stint to push their advantage to 84-35 with 4:52 to go in the period. A 21-5 blitz the rest of the way propelled the Big Orange to a 105-40 lead to close out the third frame, with Avery Strickland’s three at the 51-second mark putting UT over the century mark with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Tennessee continued to scorch the nets in the final frame, hitting 61.5 percent over the first six minutes to outscore the Lady Eagles, 21-9, and swell the score to 126-49 entering the 4:05 media timeout. UT tallied the final nine points of the game while holding C-N scoreless over the final four minutes to account for the final result. 

Next Up: The Lady Vols meet Samford for their regular-season opener on Tuesday evening at Food City Center. The contest is slated for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with coverage on SECN+.

Exhibition History: UT is now 53-5 all-time in preseason exhibition games, with the only losses coming to the Soviet National Team (1979), Athletes in Action (1992) and the USA National Team (1995, 2007, 2023). In the post-Pat Summitt era, UT is 13-1 in preseason exhibition games, defeating Carson-Newman 11 times (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024) and both Georgia College (2021) and Coker (2012) on one occasion each. The only loss was to the USA Women’s National Team in 2023.

First-Time In Orange & White: Transfers Ruby WhitehornSamara SpencerTalaysia CooperFavor Ayodele and Alyssa Latham, and redshirt freshman Kaniya Boyd made their Lady Vol debuts during the exhibition contest. The six new faces combined for 84 points, 30 rebounds,17 assists and 22 steals during Tennessee’s triumph.

Ruby On A Roll: Junior Ruby Whitehorn impressed during her opening performance as a Lady Vol, totaling 29 points. The guard fired in 13 points in the first quarter, nine in the second frame, two in the third and five in the fourth. The Detroit, Michigan, native showed great touch from the arc, knocking down four out of six three-point attempts.

Dropping Thirties: Throughout tonight’s game the red-hot Lady Vols posted 30 points or more in every quarter of play. The Big Orange tallied a total of 31 points in the first quarter, 33 in the second quarter, 41 in the third quarter and 30 in the fourth to finish the game. The Lady Vols also surpassed 100 points for the 15th time in 19 exhibition games vs. the Lady Eagles.

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Man Dead after Possible Pedestrian Crash on I-40, Sevierville Police Say

Sevierville, TN (WOKI) A pedestrian is dead after possibly being hit by a car Wednesday evening on I-40 East in Sevierville.

Sevierville Police Department officials say officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 for a person lying on the side of the interstate.

When officers arrived, SPD says they found 61-year old Craig Olcott alive but not moving.

Officials say Olcott had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, or by a trailer being towed by a vehicle, adding that he died later that night at UT Medical Center.

The death is under investigation. Anyone with information is being asked to call SPD Detective Sergeant Graham Brantley at 865-868-1748.

Department officials said Thursday that officers were called near exit 407 around 10:20 p.m. about a person lying on the side of the interstate. (Courtesy: SPD on Facebook)
Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

Knoxville Woman Steals $40K in Scratch-Off Lottery Tickets from Workplace, Police Report Says

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.

Siearrah Truhn, 35 (Courtesy: KPD)
KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

KPD says Motorcyclist Passes Away Following Washington Pike Crash

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 Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

Knox County Seeks Input on East Knox County Mobility Study

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.