KNOXVILLE, TN — The Knoxville community is grieving the tragic loss of Troy Hutchison, 33, of Atlanta, Georgia, and Rodrell Jeter, 25, of Detroit, Michigan, who were fatally shot early Sunday morning on I-640 West. A third victim, a 22-year-old man from Detroit, remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.
Authorities say the victims were traveling through Knoxville from Detroit to Atlanta with a male suspect at the time of the shooting. The relationship between the victims and the suspect, as well as the motive for the attack, remains unknown. Police report that the suspect fled the scene in a light-colored, newer model Ford Bronco with Michigan tags and has not yet been located.
Friends, family, and community members are mourning the sudden and senseless loss of Hutchison and Jeter. Both men were described by loved ones as kind, vibrant, and full of life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew them. Their sudden deaths have sent shockwaves through their families and the broader community, highlighting the fragility of life and the devastating effects of violence.
Investigators with the Knoxville Police Department Homicide Unit continue to interview witnesses and associates of the victims to uncover details about the shooting. Authorities have emphasized that the victims had no known ties to Knox County, underscoring the tragedy of the incident.
The community is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in locating the suspect and providing answers to the families. Anyone with relevant details is asked to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers by phone, online, or via text.
As Knoxville mourns, friends and family are holding onto memories of Troy and Rodrell—their laughter, their kindness, and the lives they touched. Though their time was cut tragically short, their memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved them.
Troy Hutchison and Rodrell Jeter will be forever remembered, deeply mourned, and cherished by all who knew them
