SMITH COUNTY, Tenn. — Authorities have recovered the body of an individual following a search and recovery operation in the Cumberland River near the Cordell Hull Bridge in Smith County on Tuesday.
According to officials, the incident began earlier in the day when Carthage Police were called to investigate a disturbance involving a man who had reportedly left a halfway house. Officers located the individual, who was described as wearing only underwear and appearing to be under the influence. Authorities say the man resisted police and fled on foot.
During the incident, the individual entered the Cumberland River near the Carthage boat ramp area in an apparent attempt to escape. He was seen swimming before going underwater and failing to resurface.
Emergency rescue agencies launched a coordinated search effort. The bridge near the scene was temporarily closed to allow for drone operations, though it later reopened.
At approximately 2:30 p.m., Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) game wardens using sonar and underwater camera equipment located the subject. Members of the Putnam County Rescue dive team recovered the body shortly before 3 p.m. in approximately 15 feet of water.
Multiple agencies assisted in the operation, including Putnam County Rescue, Putnam County Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, TWRA, Smith County EMS, and local emergency responders.
Officials said responders had hoped for a more favorable outcome. Authorities extended their deepest sympathies to the individual’s family.
The incident remains under investigation.
