FENTRESS COUNTY, Tenn. – Authorities have identified Stephen Joe Hicks as the victim of a fatal altercation on the evening of September 24 along Old Turnpike Road.
Deputies with the Fentress County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call regarding a possible deceased individual. Upon arrival, they confirmed that Hicks had died from injuries sustained during the incident.
A witness at the scene identified Phillip Hope as the suspect involved. Deputies, in coordination with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), immediately began searching for him. Hope was later located at a residence on Gatewood Trail and taken into custody without incident.
The weapon believed to have been used was recovered at the scene. Hope was transported to the Fentress County Justice Center, where he is currently being held on a charge of criminal homicide.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials said additional details may be released as they become available. Authorities also reminded the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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