News Release

Special Agents investigate a murder in the Smokies

Date: March 30, 2015
Contact: Investigative Services Branch, [phone]

ISB and FBI special agents are investigating a homicide that occurred in the Smokemont (Oconaluftee) Baptist Church within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

NPS photo

Special Agents investigate a murder in the Smokies

Special agents with ISB and the Charlotte Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are investigating the murder of a man that took place on March 29, 2015. The 25-year-old man's body was found inside the Smokemont Baptist Church (also known as the Oconaluftee Baptist Church) within the boundaries of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The historic church is near the Smokemont Campground; it has been reopened to visitors.

Soon after the man's body was discovered, investigators "responded to the scene and gathered evidence, which will be processed to determine the cause, manner and circumstances of the man's death," said FBI spokeswoman Shelley Lynch. The victim has been identified as Tyler Britton Gaddis; his death has been ruled a homicide and the investigation continues.

If you have information about this incident, please call the ISB Tip Line at 888-653-0009. You don't have to tell us who you are, but please tell us what you know.

ISB is on the web at www.nps.gov/isb 

Home | What We Do | News | Tip Line | Jobs | Internships and Details | Contact Us