New Tazewell, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A New Tazewell man is facing multiple serious charges, including attempted second-degree murder, following a violent incident at a home late last month.
According to a police report obtained by WVLT News, officers with the New Tazewell Police Department responded to a “shots fired” call around 11:30 p.m. on May 31 at a home on Main Street.
The report identifies Paul Rogers Jr. as the suspect.
Investigators say Rogers had spent the day at a nearby lake with a group of people before returning to the residence. Once back at the home, witnesses told officers that Rogers began acting erratically after drinking throughout the day.
According to the report, Rogers made inappropriate and sexual comments toward a woman in the group, which led to a confrontation. Witnesses also told police that Rogers was speaking to himself before tensions escalated.
After being confronted about his behavior, Rogers reportedly left the room. Moments later, witnesses said three gunshots were fired inside the home.
Multiple people inside the residence spoke with officers. One witness told police that a 12-year-old girl was present when the gunfire occurred.
Another person reported that they believed Rogers was attempting to force his way into a bedroom when a physical altercation broke out between him and another man in the home.
Authorities say Rogers was later taken to Claiborne Medical Center. While there, officers read him his rights. According to the report, Rogers admitted to stabbing a man during the incident.
Police subsequently charged Rogers with attempted second-degree murder, along with additional assault charges.
The extent of the victim’s injuries has not been released. Authorities have not said what led to the escalation beyond the initial disturbance.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
