Knoxville Police Seek Leads on Car Tied to 2023 Unsolved Murder

Detectives believe a Dodge Avenger may hold key clues in the killing of Emory Johnson.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 6:15pm

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Knoxville Police Department Homicide Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the unsolved murder of 25-year-old Emory Johnson, who was shot and killed on the 2400 block of Center Avenue on June 7, 2023. Detectives believe a Dodge Avenger was somehow involved in the shooting and may have been sold or abandoned in the greater Knoxville area soon after the incident.

Why it matters

Unsolved murders are a major concern for any community, as they leave victims' families without closure and can undermine public trust in law enforcement. The potential involvement of a vehicle in this case suggests the possibility of additional evidence that could help crack the case.

The details

Knoxville police say the Dodge Avenger (pictured) may have been involved in the shooting death of Emory Johnson in June 2023. Detectives are urging anyone with information about the car or the circumstances surrounding Johnson's murder to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers anonymously.

  • Emory Johnson was shot and killed on June 7, 2023.

The players

Emory Johnson

A 25-year-old victim who was shot and killed in Knoxville in June 2023.

Knoxville Police Department Homicide Unit

The division of the Knoxville Police Department investigating the unsolved murder of Emory Johnson.

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What’s next

Detectives said the judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the suspected shooter out on bail.

The takeaway

This unsolved murder case highlights the importance of community cooperation in helping police solve violent crimes. Providing any information, even anonymously, could be the key to bringing the perpetrator to justice and providing closure for the victim's family.