BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a Blount County bicyclist last month.
Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong announced that 86-year-old Harold E. McLemore of Maryville has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death following the June 25 crash that killed Joyce Frey.
According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 10:30 a.m. on June 25 to a report of an injured woman lying in a ditch along Ole Niles Ferry Road.
The woman, later identified as Frey, had suffered severe injuries and was airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead a short time later.
Investigators launched an extensive investigation into the incident, collecting witness statements and other evidence. Authorities said that information ultimately led detectives to identify McLemore as the suspect.
“This is a tragic situation,” Sheriff Berrong said. “With this arrest, we provided some closure and justice for Mrs. Frey’s family, but it doesn’t really ease anyone’s suffering. My prayers go out to everyone who was affected by this incident.”
McLemore was booked into the Blount County Correctional Facility and later released on his own recognizance. Authorities said his driving privileges have been revoked.
He is scheduled to appear in court on July 13.
The investigation remains ongoing.
