Maryville, TN – A Tennessee man is facing several charges, including attempted first-degree murder, following a violent incident on Christmas Eve that left multiple victims shaken and one injured. Robert Gene Pannell Jr. has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated robbery, three counts of especially aggravated kidnapping, employing a firearm with intent to go armed, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon.
The events unfolded early on the morning of December 24 when Pannell reportedly entered an apartment on Alliance Drive, where he became aggressive and argumentative. According to court records, Pannell brandished a firearm and refused to leave the residence when asked by the occupants. One of the victims described feeling trapped due to Pannell’s volatile behavior, prompting a sense of fear among those inside the apartment.
As tensions escalated, Pannell allegedly began firing shots inside the apartment, threatening to kill one of the residents while others, including children, were reportedly hiding in a back bedroom. Court documents state that Pannell took a victim’s car keys and cell phone before the situation took a more dangerous turn.
Two victims managed to flee the apartment, only to encounter Pannell outside. During this encounter, Pannell allegedly shot one of the victims in the back of the head, grazing their skull with the bullet. Despite the injury, the victim was able to survive the attack.
Pannell fled the scene, traveling to Fort Promise Drive, where he encountered another man who was on his way to assist his children at the Alliance Drive apartment. According to court records, Pannell demanded the man’s car keys and wallet, firing a shot into the air before stealing the wallet, which contained $1,900 in cash. Afterward, Pannell returned to the scene on Alliance Drive, where he was apprehended by law enforcement officers.
Authorities arrested Pannell, and he is now facing a long list of charges in connection with the violent spree. The incident has raised serious concerns about public safety, with law enforcement commending the victims for their courage in escaping the dangerous situation. Pannell’s history as a convicted felon and his actions on Christmas Eve have left many in the community shaken as they await the outcome of the legal proceedings.
The charges against Pannell reflect the gravity of the situation, as his actions involved multiple threats to life and public safety, including the use of firearms and violent behavior in the presence of children. As the case moves forward, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice in the wake of this harrowing event.
