Victim Identified from Red Roof Inn Shooting
The victim of the fatal shooting that occurred on Sunday, October 11, 2020 at the Red Roof Inn located at 5334 Central Avenue Pike has been identified as John Townsend (DOB 4/30/62) of Knoxville, Tennessee. The second victim remains in critical condition. The investigation remains ongoing as investigators are continuing to follow all active leads. Anyone with information is urged to call Investigator Preston Whillock at 865-215-7315.
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On Sunday, October 11, 2020 at approximately 9:30 p.m., Knoxville Police Department officers responded to the Red Roof Inn located at 5334 Central Avenue Pike in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located two male victims, each suffering from at least one gunshot wound. One was pronounced dead on the scene, while the other was transported to the UT Medical Center via AMR in critical condition. The preliminary investigation determined that multiple suspects arrived at the motel and approached a second-floor room in a possible attempted armed robbery prior to the shooting occurring. The suspects then fled the scene prior to officer arrival.
Violent Crimes Unit investigators responded to the scene to begin their investigation, which remains in the preliminary stages. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to call Investigator Preston Whillock at 865-215-7315.