DANIEL MESSER OBITUARY, DEATH, 35, FATALLY SHOT IN NEWPORT, TENNESSEE; ERIC BANKS, 40, CHARGED WITH SECOND-DEGREE MURDER AFTER ADMITTING TO INVOLVEMENT IN SHOOTING, CLAIMING ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE OF .44 MAGNUM RUGER_
Newport, Tennessee – A devastating and tragic incident has shaken the community of Newport, Tennessee, after 35-year-old Daniel Messer was found dead with a gunshot wound to the face. The fatal shooting occurred early Sunday morning, and Eric Banks, 40, has been charged with second-degree murder.
_The Incident: A Timeline of Events_
Deputies from the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call on Edgefield Way at around 1:47 a.m. on Sunday morning. Upon arrival, they discovered Messer with a gunshot wound to the face. Messer was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators interviewed Eric Banks, who admitted to being involved in the shooting. Banks claimed that he and Messer were discussing guns when he brought a .44 Magnum Ruger into Messer’s bedroom. While holding the firearm, Banks said he pulled back the hammer and tried to release it slowly. The gun discharged, striking Messer in the face.
Banks also told deputies that he had been drinking alcohol before the incident. Messer’s body was transported by the Newport Rescue Squad to the Knoxville Forensics Center for an autopsy.
_Investigation and Charges_
Following the investigation, CCSO detectives Bob Schaff and Katrina Baldwin arrested Banks. He now faces a second-degree murder charge. The Cocke County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Daniel Messer, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones,” said Cocke County Sheriff, Armando Fontes. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.”
_Community Reaction and Support_
The tragic loss of Daniel Messer has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents expressing their condolences and support for the victim’s family.
“This is a terrible tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with Daniel’s family and loved ones,” said Newport Mayor, Roland Dykes. “We urge everyone to come together and support each other during this difficult time.”
_A Life Remembered: Daniel Messer_
Daniel Messer, a 35-year-old resident of Newport, was a beloved member of his community. Friends and family members describe Messer as a kind, compassionate, and caring individual who was deeply committed to his loved ones.
Messer’s tragic passing has left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire and motivate others to work towards creating a safer and more compassionate community.
_Gun Safety Awareness_
The Cocke County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to exercise caution and safety when handling firearms, and to always follow proper gun safety protocols. The office is also providing resources and support for gun safety awareness.
For those affected by the incident, the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office is offering counseling services and support through its Victim Services department. Residents can access these resources by calling (423) 623-3064 or visiting the office’s website.
In addition, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security is providing resources and support for gun safety awareness. Residents can access these resources by visiting the department’s website.
The community is coming together to support the family and loved ones of Daniel Messer during this difficult time.
_ANYONE WITH INFORMATION ABOUT THIS INCIDENT IS URGED TO CONTACT THE COCKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AT (423) 623-3064._
