LENOIR CITY, Tenn. — Authorities have arrested two suspects in connection to a deadly shooting that occurred Saturday night in Lenoir City, Tennessee. The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office reported that the shooting took place on Taylor Drive, where the victim, identified as 38-year-old Eric Matthew Leach, was fatally wounded.
According to Cpl. Cody Bengel, deputies responded to the scene and found that Leach had succumbed to injuries sustained in the shooting. Preliminary investigations revealed that a dark blue 2004 GMC Yukon, with Tennessee license plate 511-BNKS, fled the scene shortly after the incident.
Law enforcement quickly identified Ashley Sharp, 28, and Vincent Ellis, 31, as suspects. Sharp was wanted for first-degree murder, while Ellis was sought for his involvement as an accessory after the fact. Authorities spent the following day searching for the pair, eventually locating them with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service.
The suspects were taken into custody Sunday evening in West Knox County. Sheriff Jimmy Davis expressed his gratitude for the coordinated effort among local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals. “The successful capture of Ashley Sharp and Vincent Ellis demonstrates the power of teamwork and the critical role the community plays in assisting law enforcement efforts,” Sheriff Davis said.
Both suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues. The shooting has left the community shaken, and authorities are continuing their efforts to gather more information regarding the circumstances surrounding the crime.
