CHATTANOOGA, TN – June 29, 2025 – The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) has arrested 31-year-old Joseph Tanner Smith in connection with a fatal stabbing that occurred early Sunday morning on the city’s east side. Smith now faces a charge of Criminal Homicide following an altercation that ended in the death of a 37-year-old man.
According to CPD, officers responded to a distress call at approximately 5:32 a.m. on June 29, reporting a stabbing at a residence in the 600 block of Lindsay Avenue. When they arrived on the scene, officers found a male victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. Emergency medical services were immediately summoned, and both the victim and the suspect—Joseph Tanner Smith, who was found at the scene with a laceration to his head—were transported to a nearby hospital.
Despite efforts by emergency responders and medical staff, the 37-year-old victim—whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending notification of next of kin—succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Detectives with the CPD’s Violent Crimes Unit quickly launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Early indications suggest that Smith and the victim may have known each other, and the stabbing is believed to have occurred during a physical altercation inside the residence. Police have not yet released further details about the motive, but there is no indication that any additional suspects are being sought at this time.
Joseph Tanner Smith was treated for his injuries and later taken into police custody. He has been formally charged with Criminal Homicide and is currently being held at the Hamilton County Jail pending further legal proceedings.
“This was a violent and tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim,” a CPD spokesperson said. “Thanks to the swift action of our patrol officers and the diligent work of our detectives, the suspect was quickly identified, treated, and taken into custody.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the events leading up to the fatal confrontation. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the precise cause of death, and the Chattanooga Police Department is working closely with the Medical Examiner’s Office.
Anyone with additional information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Chattanooga Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (423) 698-3333.
The tragic death on Lindsay Avenue marks another painful moment in the ongoing fight against violent crime in Chattanooga. As the community grieves, city leaders and law enforcement alike are renewing calls for peaceful conflict resolution and continued support for anti-violence programs across the region.