Chattanooga Man, 29, Behind Bars in Connection with Fatal Skate Park Shooting
Arrest Made in Tragic Chattanooga Shooting
Demetre Tayshaun Isaac, a 29-year-old man, has been arrested and charged in relation to a fatal shooting that occurred near a Chattanooga skate park on April 12, 2024. Isaac was apprehended on Wednesday in Montgomery, Alabama following the diligent investigative work by the local police department.
Sgt. Victor Miller, the police spokesperson, confirmed the charges against Isaac during a recent news conference. Isaac is facing charges of first-degree murder and felony reckless endangerment, related to the death of a 21-year-old man named Michael Buttram.
The Fateful Night
According to the police, the incident happened after a diverse crowd had exited Southside Social, a local bar, and gathered in the nearby skate park’s parking lot. During the early morning hours of April 12, an altercation escalated between Isaac and two other individuals.
Isaac allegedly attempted to seize a handgun from one of the individuals involved in the dispute when Buttram, not initially involved in the argument, attempted to intervene and return the firearm. Unfortunately, in the ensuing scuffle, Isaac supposedly opened fire on Buttram, shooting him at least twice.
Loss of a Young Life
Buttram sustained severe injuries and was transported to a neighboring hospital for immediate medical attention. Tragically, he later succumbed to his injuries that day. Upon police arrival at the scene, the crowd had already dispersed, making it difficult for local law enforcement to gather evidence and information.
Manhunt Leads to Arrest
After extensive investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service located and arrested Isaac, the prime suspect, in Montgomery, Alabama. Isaac is currently detained in Alabama and is awaiting transfer to Hamilton County, Chattanooga.
The police department confirmed the likelihood of Isaac being a Chattanooga resident around the time of the shooting. Sgt Miller strongly encouraged community members to contact law enforcement if they encounter sizeable gatherings late into the night, especially situations involving firearms or fights.
Rising Instances of Gun Violence
With this latest incident, Chattanooga has witnessed a total of 11 homicides so far in 2024. This highlights the increasing frequency of gun violence affecting the community, presenting a worrying trend for local authorities. HERE News network echoes the call from Sgt Miller for citizens to play a proactive role in reporting any suspicious activities to the police and participating in making the community safer.
Anyone with pertinent information about the case is advised to contact the Chattanooga Police Department. All sources of information will be kept anonymous.
Justifying the Arrest
Despite the horrific circumstances and the loss of a young life, this case portrays the commitment and resourcefulness of the Chattanooga Police Department and the U.S. Marshals in swiftly apprehending a prime suspect. This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of gun violence and the need for vigilance and community cooperation in combating such threats.
The death of Michael Buttram is undoubtedly a tragedy, and HERE News sends condolences to his family and friends during this challenging time.
Legal Proceedings Awaiting Isaac
Demetre Tayshaun Isaac now awaits a judicial proceeding where his guilt or innocence will be determined. In the justice system, the swift work by law enforcement in apprehending a suspect is only the beginning. The process of ensuring justice for Michael Buttram is in the early stages, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
– HERE News
