Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, a Tennessee murder suspect, is the subject of an intense nationwide manhunt after authorities uncovered his attempt to disguise a killing with a fabricated bear attack story. Evidence showed the victim’s injuries inconsistent with the story. A reward is offered for anyone with information.
Manhunt Details
Authorities have launched a nationwide search for Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, who is suspected of murder in Tennessee. Hamlett reportedly used a false identity, Brandon Andrade, to call 911 about a fake bear attack. Investigators found discrepancies between the reported attack and the actual state of the victim’s injuries. The FBI and U.S. Marshal Service are coordinating efforts to locate the suspect, known for his violent tendencies and cunning nature.
Upon discovering a corpse with Andrade’s stolen ID card, law enforcement revealed that Hamlett had used this identity multiple times. Initial findings indicated that the injuries were not consistent with a bear attack or a fall. This contradiction confirmed the victim was not Andrade but had been murdered, implicating Hamlett in the crime. “There is a risk to the public, a great risk to the public,” stated Tommy Jones. Hamlett’s actions and past criminal activities have raised the stakes in his apprehension.
FBI, US Marshal Service join nationwide manhunt for murder suspect accused of faking bear attack https://t.co/DcsqS32mnD
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 31, 2024
Suspect’s Background and Criminal History
Nicholas Wayne Hamlett has a criminal history, marked by a 2009 arrest for attempted murder and kidnapping in Alabama. He was sentenced in 2012 to 20 years for felony assault after pleading down from more severe charges. Currently wanted for first-degree murder, Hamlett continues to elude law enforcement while being considered armed and dangerous. Authorities urge him to surrender and appeal to the public for assistance in capturing him.
Hamlett is known to use various aliases and has connections in multiple states, including Alabama, Montana, Alaska, Kentucky, and Florida. A reward of $5,000 has been set by the U.S. Marshal Service for information leading to Hamlett’s capture. Authorities emphasize their commitment to bringing him to justice swiftly.
🚨Tennessee’s Monroe County Sheriff Seeks Public's Help to Locate Missing 45-Year-Old Nicholas Wayne Hamlett
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is asking for assistance in finding Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, 45, who has connections across several states, including Montana,… pic.twitter.com/xpg3JSqwEd
— Kristy Tallman (@KristyTallman) October 28, 2024
Law Enforcement’s Nationwide Efforts
The pursuit of Hamlett involves coordinated efforts from local, state, and federal agencies. The U.S. Marshal Service and FBI are employing extensive resources to track down the suspect. Hamlett is described as having blue eyes, being 5’7″ tall, and weighing 170 pounds. “The long arm of the law has a long and huge reach, and we will find you no matter where you hide,” declared Joseph Carrico, emphasizing the law enforcement’s determination.
Hamlett’s evasion tactics, along with multiple aliases, complicate his capture, but authorities remain resolute. Ensuring public safety and bringing Hamlett to justice is a top priority as the search intensifies across the nation.
