Sentencing Delayed for Man Convicted of Murder in Grundy County

October 19, 2023

John Wesley Smith of Marion County was found guilty on Sept. 1 of the premeditated first-degree murder of his estranged wife, Carolyn Nicole Powell, in Grundy County in 2018. His sentencing date was set for Oct. 16, but that was delayed until Nov. 13. Because of busy schedules, the delay was requested to review certain documents.

Smith was convicted of attempted premeditated first-degree murder of Gary Christopher Hurst, attempted second-degree murder of her father, Jerone Powell, aggravated assault of her mother, Betty Chrissy Powell, and eight counts of reckless endangerment against others.

Lucky Knott

One of Southern Tennessee's most experienced and recognized news broadcasters and play-by-play sportscasters. News and Sports Director for Rooster 101.5 FM, 93.9 The Duck and Whiskey Country 105.1, and 95.9. He is currently the play-by-play voice of the Coffee County Red Raiders (30 years) on The Rooster 101.5 and can be heard M-F broadcasting our local news. Lucky has done play-by-play for 3,905 (and counting) sports events on Radio & TV. He also served four years as the Public Information Officer for the Coffee Co. Sheriff's Dept. and taught Radio/TV for six years at Grundy County High School.