Authorities in eastern Tennessee are conducting a manhunt for a suspect involved in a shooting that resulted in the death of one sheriff's deputy and the injury of another. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Kenneth Dehart, is wanted on charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The incident occurred during a traffic stop, with Deputy Greg McCowan losing his life and a female officer sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg.

Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong expressed his grief and remorse during a news conference, stating that this was the most difficult situation he has ever faced. He apologized to the family of Deputy McCowan for not being able to protect him. The department's Facebook page shared the warrants issued for Dehart and announced a $10,000 reward for any information leading to his arrest.

Law enforcement agencies from multiple jurisdictions are collaborating in the search for Dehart, who is considered armed and dangerous. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has included him on its Most Wanted list and issued a #TNBlueAlert. The bureau urged anyone with information to contact them immediately.

Dehart was last seen in Maryville, a city in Blount County, located about 17 miles south of Knoxville. The sheriff's office advised the public not to approach him if spotted. The shooting took place on Sevierville Road, resulting in the closure of a section of the road indefinitely.

The motive behind the initial encounter between the deputies and Dehart has not been disclosed by the sheriff's department. However, Sheriff Berrong has requested the assistance of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in the ongoing search. The injured deputy is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital.

The community is on high alert as law enforcement agencies intensify their efforts to apprehend Dehart and bring him to justice. The tragic loss of Deputy McCowan has left a profound impact on the department and the community as a whole.