Manhunt Intensifies For Murder Suspect Evading Capture In Tennessee

Police car with flashing red and blue lights.

A nationwide manhunt is underway for Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, a murder suspect who allegedly staged a bear attack to cover up his crime in Tennessee.

At a Glance

Nicholas Wayne Hamlett is wanted for first-degree murder in Tennessee
He allegedly faked a bear attack by calling 911 under a stolen identity
The FBI and U.S. Marshal Service are leading a nationwide search
Hamlett is considered armed and dangerous with a violent criminal history
A $5,000 reward is offered for information leading to his capture

Elaborate Ruse Unravels

On October 18, 2024, near Tellico Plains, Tennessee, a chilling 911 call reported a bear attack in the Cherokee National Forest. What seemed like a tragic wilderness accident quickly unraveled into a complex murder case, exposing the devious actions of Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, now the target of an intense nationwide manhunt.

Authorities responding to the scene found a grim reality that contradicted the reported bear attack. The victim’s injuries were inconsistent with an animal assault or accidental fall, leading investigators to suspect foul play. The discovery set off a chain of events that would expose Hamlett’s elaborate scheme to conceal a murder.

A Trail of Deception

As the investigation deepened, it became clear that Hamlett had gone to extraordinary lengths to cover his tracks. He had used a stolen identity, that of Brandon Andrade, to make the 911 call and report the fictitious bear attack. This wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision but part of a calculated plan to evade justice.

“There is a risk to the public, a great risk to the public. The offender, he does have a history. He did know this victim. He has known him for quite a few months now. But yes, there is a risk of the public. This was not isolated incident by any means,” said Monroe County Sheriff Tommy Jones.

Hamlett’s criminal past came to light, revealing a disturbing pattern of violence and deceit. In 2009, he was arrested for attempted murder and kidnapping in Alabama, eventually pleading down to felony assault and receiving a 20-year sentence in 2012. This history paints a picture of a dangerous individual with a propensity for violence and a talent for deception.

Manhunt Intensifies

The FBI, U.S. Marshal Service, and local law enforcement agencies have joined forces in a nationwide search for Hamlett. Described as 5’7″ tall, weighing 170 pounds, with blue eyes, Hamlett is considered armed and extremely dangerous. His ability to use multiple aliases and his connections across several states, including Alabama, Montana, Alaska, Kentucky, and Florida, have complicated the search efforts.

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Hamlett immediately. The U.S. Marshal Service has offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to his capture, emphasizing the urgency of bringing this dangerous fugitive to justice.

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office in Tennessee on Saturday night asked for the public's help in finding 45-year-old Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, who they said was wanted for first-degree murder. https://t.co/0Kp8lxzFqA

— 48 Hours (@48hours) October 27, 2024

A Community on Edge

The quiet mountain town where this crime occurred has been rocked by the revelation that such a violent act could happen in their midst. As forensic experts work to identify the victim and piece together the full story, residents are left grappling with a sense of unease. The case serves as a stark reminder that danger can lurk even in the most unexpected places, and that vigilance is crucial in maintaining community safety.

As the manhunt continues, authorities remain determined to bring Nicholas Wayne Hamlett to justice. His capture is not just about solving a single crime but about protecting communities across the nation from an individual who has shown a repeated disregard for human life and the law. The public’s assistance in this case could be crucial in ensuring that Hamlett faces the consequences of his alleged actions and preventing any further harm.