By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Camden, Tenn.–Tuesday night’s standoff in Camden when the house being surrounded by law enforcement erupted into flames. The body of the suspect was recovered from the scene.
Witnesses said they heard what sounded like a gunshot around the same time the fire started.
District Attorney Matt Stowe told RadioNWTN this morning that body of the suspect, Leroy Stoker, was recovered from the scene.
Stowe said the TBI is investigating the point of origin of the fire, at Stowe’s request. “I will receive a report as soon as they are finished. Given the rain that came, I think they should be able to make a determination. The house is still largely intact,” Stowe said.
The armed standoff began in mid-afternoon and ended after 9 p.m. when the fire began. Law enforcement surrounding the house on George Street included U.S. Marshals, Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Henry County Sheriff’s Office.
Stowe said Stoker had outstanding warrants.
Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Hedge was on the scene of the standoff along with officers. The Fire Marshal arrived at the scene once the fire started.
Other occupants of the house and residents of nearby homes reportedly were evacuated as the standoff began and were unharmed.
Stowe posted on Facebook last night: “Tonight we need prayers for all the law enforcement in harm’s way, including local Benton County law enforcement who are dealing with a very volatile situation in the form of an armed standoff. The individual in question needs to know that regardless of his mistakes he is loved and that violence is not the answer. Pray for peace.”
Photo by Bobby Melton.