By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Indian Mound, Tenn.—The Indian Mound United Methodist Church was filled with emotion Monday night as family, friends and community members came together to mourn the tragedy that unfolded in the community Sunday.
Church officials said there were “Lots of tears, prayers and love” at Monday night’s vigil. “May God comfort these families and this community.”
The Stewart Co. Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are still seeking the suspect in Sunday’s homicide which occurred when a couple surprised a suspect in the process of burglarizing their home when they returned home from church. The other victim was injured and hospitalized. The suspect then set fire to their home on Rorie Hollow Road.
The TBI yesterday identified the homicide victim as Brenda Smith, age 63.
The TBI is not identifying the other victim. TBI Spokesperson Susan Niland told WENK/WTPR Monday morning, “Due to the ongoing nature of this investigation, we are not releasing the identity of the other victim or the extent of his injuries, other than to indicate he remains hospitalized.”
Initial reports indicated that both victims were shot, but sources now say that a preliminary medical examination did not find gunshot wounds on Brenda Smith. The other victim told police he was grazed by a bullet on the head.
The victims were reportedly tied up and beaten before the house was set on fire.
Authorities are searching for a suspect described as a white man, 5’6” to 5’7” tall with thinning hair. Police are on the lookout for a 2005 black Chrysler 300 with Tennessee tag 477-MBC.
Photo courtesy of Indian Mound United Methodist Church.
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