ASHTON SMITH-CARTER ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO FATAL HENDERSON SHOOTING – TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN ADAMSVILLE

ASHTON SMITH-CARTER ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO FATAL HENDERSON SHOOTING – TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN ADAMSVILLE

HENDERSON, TN — In a swift and coordinated law enforcement effort, 35-year-old Ashton Smith-Carter of Henderson, Tennessee, has been apprehended and taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, near the intersection of Whitley and Laura Street in Henderson.

The Henderson Police Department confirmed the arrest Monday evening, bringing a major breakthrough in an investigation that began just 24 hours prior, when one individual was pronounced dead at the scene following a shooting that shocked the local community. The suspect, later identified as Smith-Carter, fled the area immediately after the incident, sparking an intense manhunt that spanned multiple jurisdictions.

By the afternoon of Monday, June 16, investigators had developed credible leads indicating that the suspect may be connected to a residence in Adamsville, TN. Working with partner agencies, Adamsville Police Chief Reagan acted on this intelligence and successfully located Ashton Smith-Carter just before 5:00 p.m. at a home in Adamsville. The arrest was made without incident, bringing relief and a sense of progress in a case that has rattled both Henderson and Adamsville residents.

The name of the victim is being withheld at this time, pending notification of next of kin and official confirmation from the medical examiner. Authorities have expressed deep sympathy for the victim’s family and pledged continued support during the days ahead.

The successful apprehension of Smith-Carter is the result of a highly coordinated and rapid response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Henderson Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), the United States Marshals Service, and the Adamsville Police Department.

“This arrest is a testament to the professionalism and commitment of law enforcement at all levels,” said Adamsville Police Chief Reagan.

“Thanks to the tireless efforts and coordination between our departments, a dangerous individual is now in custody, and we are one step closer to justice for the victim and their family.”

At this time, the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, and charges against Smith-Carter are pending. Authorities have not ruled out the involvement of additional individuals and are continuing to pursue all investigative leads.

Law enforcement officials are urging members of the public who may have any information relevant to the case to come forward. Even the smallest detail, they say, could help piece together the full picture of what occurred on Sunday night.

As the investigation unfolds, community leaders and police officials are calling for calm, cooperation, and solidarity among residents.

“The safety of our cities depends on strong partnerships and a shared sense of responsibility,” Chief Reagan added.

“We want the public to know we are here to serve and protect, and we will always pursue justice with unwavering resolve.”

The arrest of Ashton Smith-Carter has provided a crucial step forward in the pursuit of justice. It also underscores the power of inter-agency collaboration and the resilience of communities united in the face of tragedy.

Local authorities continue to offer support to the grieving family of the victim and ask the public and press to respect their privacy during this incredibly difficult time.

Further updates, including the formal charges and court appearances, are expected to be released as the legal process proceeds.