Benton County, Tenn.–24th Judicial District Attorney Matt Stowe has provided an update of the investigation involving the death of Tim Ring, whose body was found in a field in Benton County in October of 2021.
Investigation into the death of Ring, age 55, has been ongoing by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office and TBI. At the time of his death, Sheriff Ken Christopher said Ring had been shot ‘more than once’ on his property in the Lower Big Sandy Road area. Ring had left home earlier, telling family he was going to work on his deer stand. Hours later, his family found his truck in the field which led to the discovery of his body.
At the time, it appeared an arrest in the case was imminent, but none have still been made.
Stowe issued a statement today on his Facebook page, which begins: I know there has been a lot of interest in the Tim Ring case in Benton County. While I generally do not comment on ongoing investigations, I do want to inform you of a few things.”
Stowe said, “First, the investigation is ongoing. There are items being tested at the lab and there is a considerable backlog. We are also awaiting a second autopsy. I realize the death occurred almost six months ago, and most folks expect autopsies to be back within days or weeks. This is a state-wide problem, and I am in the process of bringing it to the attention of the legislature so it can be fixed.
“Second, the investigation is being conducted by the TBI at my request. I am in contact with the TBI agents involved, and I meet with them whenever schedules permit. Other law enforcement organizations, including the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, were involved in the early stages of the investigation. However, at this point the TBI and this office are the only organizations involved in the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office does not have the ability to make things go any faster.
“Third, the Ring family has been through considerable trauma as a result of this situation. They were the ones who discovered Tim’s body. They need love and support, as much as can be given. We do not need to expect the family to behave in any specific way. None of us know how we would respond to a situation as horrible as the one they have been through. My office and I are doing our best to coordinate and assist in this difficult time.”
Stowe concluded: “Fourth, if you have any information that could be helpful to the investigation, please give it to the TBI. 1 800 TBI-FIND. And fifth, if you are the praying sort, please pray for the investigation to find the truth and for peace and comfort for the Ring family and all families affected by violent crime. It can happen to anyone. We will be there when it does.”