A Tennessee community is reeling after a man was charged with the first-degree murder of someone he had known for years, following a shooting in Tipton County. According to Action News 5, William E. Wylie, 47, is accused of fatally shooting Jacob Hearn, 25, outside a residence on Holly Grove Road in Brighton, early Sunday morning.
Upon their arrival, deputies administered first aid to Hearn, who was suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency services continued these efforts and transported the victim to Baptist Memorial Hospital in Tipton, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries, FOX13 Memphis reported. Alcohol is said to have been a factor, as both men had been drinking prior to the shooting.
Further details emerged regarding the nature of the relationship between the two men. "This is not a case of where these men were strangers, but rather people who have known each other for years," said Sheriff Shannon Beasley, expressing the sorrow of the incident and extending condolences to the families involved, in a statement obtained by WREG News Channel 3.
Authorities have indicated that Wylie, without bond, is currently being held in custody. A court appearance has been scheduled for October 7, at 9 a.m.. Investigative efforts continued as detectives gathered evidence and conducted interviews to piece together the events that led to Hearn's death, Action News 5 reported. The case is ongoing, and the sheriff's office encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
