In Carter County, Tennessee, authorities have launched a homicide investigation following a fatal incident on Friday morning, as stated by Sheriff Mike Fraley.
Officials from the Carter County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) have confirmed the ongoing investigation into the homicide. Sheriff Fraley informed News Channel 11 that the deceased has been identified as 18-year-old Jaylen Burleson.
The fatality occurred at approximately 4 a.m. in a residence located on Earl McKinney Road in the Valley Forge area. According to reports from the sheriff’s office, a 911 call was received reporting a shooting incident.
“The exact cause of death is still being investigated,” Fraley explained. “Currently, the victim is at the ETSU Forensic College, where an autopsy is in progress.”
Efforts to determine Burleson’s cause of death continue, with his body now at the William L. Jenkins Forensic Center for further examination.
The Carter County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a release that the suspect, Morland Orvil Whitely, 19, was charged with first-degree murder and the possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.
“We have been working with a district attorney throughout the afternoon, on the appropriate charges in this matter,” said Fraley.
Fraley said there is no threat to the public.
“I just want to commend the hard work of our investigators and our patrol division and the assistance of the TBI. The minute that they got involved in this, they started working this case and less than 12 hours later we have an individual in custody,” said Fraley.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has been requested to assist in the investigation.