Manhunt Underway for Nicholas Wayne Hamlett

A nationwide manhunt is underway for Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, who is wanted for the murder of a hiker, but how he evaded capture unfolds like a complex thriller.

At a Glance

The FBI and U.S. Marshals are searching for Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, involved in a murder in Tennessee.
A reward of $5,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.
Hamlett allegedly killed a victim and used a stolen identity to cloak his crime.
Authorities describe Hamlett as armed and dangerous with ties to multiple states.
The public is advised not to approach Hamlett if seen.

The Manhunt Intensifies

The U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI have joined forces in a determined effort to capture Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, a suspect in a Tennessee murder. The search for Hamlett, described as particularly violent, underscores the gravity of the threat he poses. The manhunt has spread nationwide, and authorities are leveraging their full resources to ensure Hamlett is apprehended.

In Monroe County, Tennessee, law enforcement continues to work around the clock, coordinating with federal agencies to track Hamlett. Sheriff Tommy Jones warns of the serious risk to the public, calling Hamlett a dangerous individual. “There is a great risk to the public. The offender has a history. This is not an isolated incident,” Monroe County Sheriff Tommy Jones emphasized.

Unveiling the Crime

Hamlett is a key suspect in a murder case that intricately involves a stolen identity and false claims to law enforcement. Authorities discovered that he called 911, pretending to be a hiker chased by a bear. The discovery of an unidentified body near Tellico Plains revealed a grisly scene, with blunt force trauma cited as the cause of death. Detectives identified the chain of deception when they found identification for Brandon Kristopher Andrade at the crime scene.

Hamlett’s escape to evade parole was further compounded by his creation of a false narrative about his demise. Authorities determined that Andrade’s identification had been used on multiple occasions, which led detectives to confirm Hamlett’s involvement. Subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued, stating first-degree murder charges and declaring him armed and dangerous.

The Road Ahead

The search is not confined to Tennessee. Hamlett has connections across various states, including Alabama, Kentucky, Montana, Alaska, and Florida. The search operation encompasses these regions, with authorities urging the public to report any sightings of Hamlett. With a criminal record marked by violent crimes, including attempted murder, Hamlett’s capture remains a top priority for law enforcement.

Authorities have set up a tip line, urging anyone with information about Hamlett’s whereabouts to come forward. Law enforcement officials reaffirm their commitment to working tirelessly until Hamlett is in custody. Those with pertinent information are advised to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office at 423-442-3911, with confidentiality assured for those who provide tips leading to Hamlett’s arrest.