KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (NewsNation) — A memorial service with full police honors is scheduled Wednesday for a Tennessee sheriff’s deputy who was fatally shot during a routine traffic stop last week.
Schools and government offices will close early for the tribute to Blount County Sherriff’s Deputy Greg McCowan.
The funeral is scheduled for 1 p.m. E.T. at Sevier Heights Baptist Church in Knoxville, according to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office. Following the service, there will be a procession of law enforcement vehicles to the burial site. Hundreds of people are expected to line the route.
McCowan, 43, is a decorated hero who joined the force in 2020. He leaves behind his parents, fiancée, children and grandchildren.
Tennessee authorities announced Tuesday an end to the manhunt for Kenneth Wayne DeHart, who is suspected of killing McCowan. Surveillance video captured DeHart surrendering to SWAT teams at an abandoned Knoxville home, using a flash bang to scare off a pit bull in the backyard.
Investigators haven’t revealed what led them to this house. They’re still determining how long DeHart stayed there, who helped him get there and how he evaded law enforcement for nearly five days.
Neighbors NewsNation spoke to claim they were unaware of DeHart’s presence at the home. Investigators speculate DeHart may have traveled to Georgia and returned, but evidence is still being collected.
Blount County Sheriff James Berrong said McCowan’s family was understandably emotional and grateful to hear the suspect was in custody.
“I told them when I came back at 1 (p.m.) for the funeral he would be in our jail, if there’s any way possible, God willing, and guess what, he’s in our jail,” Berrong said. “I want the death penalty.”
DeHart is accused of killing McCowan and injuring another deputy. A warrant from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation charges him with first-degree murder in the death of McCowan, attempted first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The incident happened Thursday, when deputies stopped an SUV for driving erratically. According to police, DeHart was the driver and refused to get out of the vehicle. When they attempted to use a stun gun, DeHart allegedly opened fire on them.
