Maryville, TN – The man accused of killing one Blount County deputy and injuring another during a February shooting pleaded not guilty to all 21 charges against him in court on Friday.
Kenneth Wayne DeHart Jr. was indicted in April on multiple charges, including premeditated first-degree murder in the death of Deputy Greg McCowan, and attempted first-degree murder for the shooting of Deputy Shelby Eggers. The 42-year-old DeHart faces additional charges of being a felon in possession of firearms, aggravated assault, and several firearm-related offenses, following the events of February 8, 2024.
State prosecutors have filed a notice seeking the death penalty in this case, signaling their intent to pursue the maximum penalty for the premeditated murder charge.
DeHart, who has a prior felony record, was reportedly armed during the altercation that led to the deputies’ injuries. In addition to the murder and attempted murder charges, he is facing three counts each of employing a firearm during a dangerous felony and possession of a firearm during such felonies. He is also charged with reckless endangerment, tampering with evidence, evading arrest with risk of death or serious bodily injury, and resisting arrest.
The charges stem from a traffic stop on Sevierville Road in Blount County on the night of February 8. During the stop, DeHart allegedly shot Deputy McCowan, fatally wounding him, and wounded Deputy Eggers, who survived the attack. Eggers, who was shot in the arm, testified at a preliminary hearing on February 20, recounting the traumatic events of that night.
Blount County law enforcement officials have described the shooting as an unprovoked and violent attack on officers performing a routine traffic stop. Following the shooting, DeHart reportedly fled the scene but was apprehended after a brief pursuit.
DeHart’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 31, 2025, and he is set to stand trial on April 13, 2026, according to the Blount County Clerk’s office. In the meantime, he remains in custody without bond.
The shooting has sparked widespread support for the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, with many in the community offering condolences to the families of the fallen deputy and well wishes for Deputy Eggers’ recovery. The case is expected to draw significant attention as it moves through the legal system, with the possibility of a lengthy and complex trial ahead.
