Knoxville, TN, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Jametrick Franklin King, a known gang member, was apprehended following a high-speed chase on Interstate 81. The chase ended with a crash after reaching speeds over 100 mph. King, who had multiple outstanding charges, including drug possession, was evaluated at a local hospital and then taken to jail.
Knoxville Gang Member Arrested After High-Speed Chase Leads to Crash on Interstate 81
Knoxville, TN – Jametrick Franklin King, a known gang member, was arrested after a dangerous high-speed chase down Interstate 81 near the Virginia-Tennessee border. The incident unfolded shortly before 8 p.m. on a Monday when U.S. Marshals and the Tennessee Highway Patrol attempted to apprehend King, who was wanted for multiple charges including violation of probation and burglary.
Upon noticing a marked vehicle, King, driving a black Jeep rental, fled the scene. His reckless driving reached speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour before culminating in a crash just as he crossed into Virginia. Authorities extracted King from the vehicle, and he was transported to the Bristol Regional Medical Center for evaluation. Thankfully, he sustained no injuries during the pursuit or the crash.
After receiving medical clearance, King was booked into the Carter County Jail. He is expected to face an initial appearance on federal charges relating to his indictment for possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine, filed in the U.S. District Court in Greeneville. King’s extensive criminal history includes aggravated robbery and sales and delivery of controlled substances, highlighting a pattern of violent and illegal behavior.
Details Surrounding the Arrest
King’s arrest comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat gang violence and drug distribution in the region. His previous run-ins with the law and history of evading arrest have made him a significant target for law enforcement. Kingsport authorities were acting on information regarding King’s location when they initiated the arrest attempt, leading to the dramatic chase that unfolded on the highway.
Background on Jametrick Franklin King
As a recognized leader of the Gangster Disciples street gang in Knoxville, King has accumulated a violent criminal record. His history reveals multiple offenses including prior arrests for burglary and narcotics-related charges, reflecting a trend in gang-related activities that continue to pose challenges for law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement officials are focused on dismantling gangs and mitigating their influence in communities, which often involves taking down key figures like King.
This arrest is a part of a broader law enforcement strategy to make streets safer by removing gang influence and disrupting drug trafficking operations in the area. The ongoing battle against organized crime remains a priority for both local and federal law enforcement, particularly in regions like Appalachia, where gang activity has seen a rise.
FAQs
What charges is Jametrick Franklin King facing?
Jametrick Franklin King faces multiple charges including violation of probation, burglary, and federal charges for possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
What happened during the high-speed chase?
King noticed a marked vehicle, leading him to flee at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour on Interstate 81. He crashed upon crossing the Virginia state line and was subsequently arrested.
What is King’s background with gangs?
King is identified as a leader of the Gangster Disciples street gang in Knoxville, with a long history of violent crimes and multiple past arrests for various offenses including aggravated robbery.
Key Features of the Arrest
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrest Location | Kingsport, TN |
| Chase Duration | Started before 8 p.m. leading to a crash shortly thereafter |
| Speeds Attained | Exceeding 100 miles per hour |
| Injuries | No injuries reported for King |
| Criminal History | Charges for aggravated robbery, burglary, drug trafficking |
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Additional Resources
- KATU News
- Wikipedia: Washington County Public Safety
- KPTV News
- Google Search: Washington County Burglary
- WTAE News
- Google Scholar: Washington County String of Burglaries
- WJHG News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Armed Robbery
- KSLTV News
- Google News: Burglary Suspect
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
