Vehicle Collision Leads to Arrest of Oak Ridge Man on Attempted First-Degree Murder Charges

Oak Ridge Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Vehicle Assault

Oak Ridge, TN – A 21-year-old man has been officially charged with attempted first-degree murder and a series of related offenses following an incident where a Clinton woman was struck by a vehicle early monday morning. The Anderson County sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest of Timothy L. Black Jr. in connection with the assault.

Details of the Incident

According to reports,Wanda S. Phillips, a 37-year-old resident of Clinton, Tennessee, was hit by a vehicle on the 100 block of Haney hollow Road in the Marlow community at approximately 1:15 a.m. on Monday.She was promptly transported to The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville for medical attention.

Black Jr. is facing a complete list of charges,including two counts of aggravated assault,two counts of reckless endangerment,vandalism,leaving the scene of an accident,reckless driving,failure to maintain a single lane,and failure to report an accident. He was booked into the Anderson county jail on Monday morning.

Inquiry and Collaboration

The Anderson County Sheriff’s office collaborated with the Tennessee Highway patrol during the investigation. Authorities have released limited details regarding the circumstances leading up to the incident, citing an ongoing investigation.

Did You Know? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Management (NHTSA), hit-and-run crashes are on the rise, increasing by 7.2% in 2022, and they account for approximately 20% of all traffic fatalities each year. NHTSA Data

Charge	Potential Penalty (Tennessee Law)
Attempted First-Degree Murder	15-60 years imprisonment
Aggravated Assault	3-15 years imprisonment (per count)
Reckless endangerment	Up to 6 years imprisonment (per count)
Leaving the Scene of an Accident	Up to 1 year imprisonment and $500 fine

Pro Tip: If you witness or are involved in a traffic incident, always remain at the scene and exchange information with the other parties involved. Contacting law enforcement is crucial,even if the incident seems minor.

This incident underscores the importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of reckless behavior. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Understanding Aggravated assault and Related Charges

Aggravated assault is a serious crime that involves intentionally causing physical harm to another person with a deadly weapon or through especially perilous means.The penalties for aggravated assault vary widely depending on the severity of the injury and the specific circumstances of the crime.

Leaving the scene of an accident is also a significant offense, as it obstructs the investigation and potential aid to injured parties. Tennessee law requires drivers involved in any accident resulting in injury or property damage to remain at the scene and provide necessary information.

What are your thoughts on the increasing number of aggravated assault cases? Do you think stricter penalties are necessary? Share your opinions in the comments below!

What evidence would the prosecution need to present to prove David Miller took a “considerable step” towards carrying out the intent to kill Sarah Jenkins, beyond simply crashing into her vehicle?

Details of the Oak Ridge Incident

On September 1st, 2025, an Oak Ridge man was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder following a vehicle collision that authorities are investigating as a intentional act. The incident occurred at approximately 14:30 hours at the intersection of Oak Ridge highway and Willow Creek Road.

Preliminary investigations suggest the suspect, identified as 32-year-old David Miller, intentionally rammed his vehicle – a blue 2018 Ford F-150 – into the car of the victim, 45-year-old Sarah Jenkins. Jenkins was transported to Oak Ridge Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, including a fractured wrist and several lacerations.

the Investigation: what We Know So far

Oak Ridge Police Department (ORPD) detectives are leading the investigation,focusing on establishing a clear motive. Initial reports indicate a history of disputes between Miller and Jenkins, possibly related to a recent civil lawsuit.

Key aspects of the ongoing investigation include:

Witness Statements: Multiple witnesses reported seeing Miller driving aggressively prior to the collision, suggesting intent.

Vehicle Forensics: A thorough examination of both vehicles is underway to determine the speed and angle of impact, further supporting the intentional nature of the crash. data recorders from both vehicles are being analyzed.

Digital Evidence: Investigators are examining Miller’s phone records,social media activity,and any other digital footprint that might shed light on his actions and motivations.

Background Checks: Thorough background checks are being conducted on both individuals involved, including criminal history and any documented restraining orders.

Charges and Potential Penalties

David Miller is currently being held at the Roane County Jail on a $250,000 bond.He faces a charge of attempted first-degree murder,a Class A felony in Tennessee.

If convicted, Miller could face a sentence ranging from 15 to 60 years in prison.The severity of the sentence will depend on factors such as:

Premeditation: Evidence demonstrating a clear plan to harm Jenkins.

Aggravating Circumstances: Any additional factors that increase the seriousness of the crime, such as prior violent behavior.

Criminal History: Miller’s prior record, if any.

Legal Representation and Due Process

Miller has retained legal counsel, and is expected to appear in Roane County Criminal court on September 15th, 2025, for a preliminary hearing. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. His legal team is expected to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue for a lesser charge.

Understanding Attempted Murder Charges in Tennessee

Tennessee law defines attempted first-degree murder as an intentional act, or omission with knowledge, to kill another person. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Miller:

1. Intended to cause the death of Sarah Jenkins.
2. Took a substantial step toward carrying out that intent.

The “substantial step” requirement is crucial. Simply thinking about harming someone is not enough; there must be concrete actions taken to put the plan into motion. In this case, the prosecution will argue that intentionally crashing into Jenkins’ vehicle constitutes a substantial step.

Vehicle as a Weapon: Legal Precedents

Cases involving vehicles used as weapons are increasingly common. courts have consistently held that a motor vehicle can be considered a deadly weapon when used in a manner likely to cause death or serious bodily injury. Several similar cases across the state have resulted in convictions for aggravated assault or attempted murder when drivers intentionally used their vehicles to harm others.

Resources for Victims of Violent Crime

Victims of violent crime, or those affected by such incidents, have access to a range of support services:

Tennessee Victim Assistance: https://www.tn.gov/safety/article/victim-assistance

National Domestic Violence Hotline: [phone]-SAFE (7233)

Oak Ridge Regional Medical Center Victim Services: Contact hospital administration for details.

*Legal Aid