NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — The U.S. Marshals Service has joined the search for a Tennessee murder suspect who was last seen in Kentucky, as authorities continue their efforts to locate him.
The agency’s Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force is asking for the public’s help in finding 38-year-old Jesse Wayne Phillips, who is wanted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in connection with a deadly shooting.
Investigators say Phillips is accused in the May 27 killing of Christopher B. Yates in Pickett County. Authorities say the shooting happened during a dispute, and Yates later died after being taken to a hospital.
Phillips was last known to be in Clinton County, Kentucky, on May 28, and officials believe he may still be in that area or traveling nearby.
Law enforcement officials describe Phillips as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing about 225 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. They say he has a history of violent crime and should be considered armed and dangerous.
Authorities emphasize that the public should not approach him. Instead, anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to call the U.S. Marshals Service at 1-877-WANTED2 or contact 911.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to Phillips’ arrest.
