• WHO: Levi Carter, 37, accused; Anthony Carter, 51, deceased.
  • WHAT: Alleged fatal stabbing during a domestic argument, followed by a multi-state chase.
  • WHERE: Kingsport, Tennessee, specifically a residence on Hickory Street.
  • WHEN: The incident occurred the night of June 8; arrest made on June 10.
  • STATUS: Levi Carter is charged with second-degree murder and is being held on $500,000 bond.

A Tennessee man stands accused of fatally stabbing his father during an argument at their Kingsport home, subsequently leading law enforcement on a multi-state pursuit before his arrest.

Levi Carter, 37, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his father, Anthony Carter, 51. The incident took place at the family residence on Hickory Street in Kingsport, a city located approximately 30 miles northeast of Johnson City.

What Happened

According to an affidavit obtained by WCYB, the incident unfolded the night of June 8. Anthony Carter’s wife reported that Levi Carter came to the residence and attacked his father before fleeing the scene in a red Ford F-150 pickup truck. The Kingsport Police Department issued a press release the following morning, June 9, declaring Carter “armed and dangerous” and seeking public assistance in locating him based on a murder warrant.

Authorities apprehended Levi Carter on June 10 in Church Hill, a town about 10 miles east of Kingsport. During initial questioning, Levi Carter provided details of the confrontation, according to a courtroom report by WCYB and WJHL. Kingsport Police Detective William Clare testified that Levi Carter described an argument with his father over “father and son stuff.” Carter allegedly confessed to standing up and stabbing his father once in the stomach after his father “said something that set him off.”

Detective Clare reported the presence of “essentially three crime scenes,” indicated by a trail of blood extending from the basement to other parts of the house. Police allege that after being stabbed in the chest, Anthony Carter walked into the living room and informed his wife, “Levi stabbed me.” The investigation involved a pursuit across state lines, during which a police cruiser crashed in Hawkins County. During his interrogation, Levi Carter reportedly stated, “Oh, boy,” when informed of his father’s death and allegedly told Detective Clare, “Sometimes we gotta do what we gotta do,” regarding the stabbing.

The Charges Explained

In Tennessee, second-degree murder is generally defined as the unlawful killing of another person with malice aforethought, but without premeditation or deliberation. This means the individual intended to kill or cause serious bodily injury, or acted with a conscious disregard for human life, but did not plan the act beforehand. Penalties for second-degree murder in Tennessee can range from 15 to 60 years in prison, depending on the specific circumstances and the defendant's criminal history.

How These Cases Move Through Court

Criminal cases in Tennessee, such as charges of second-degree murder, typically begin with an arrest followed by an initial appearance in court, often referred to as an arraignment. During the arraignment, the defendant is formally informed of the charges against them and their rights, and bond conditions are set or reviewed. A grand jury may then review the evidence to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to issue an indictment, which formally charges the defendant and moves the case towards trial in a Criminal Court. If indicted, the defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty. Pre-trial hearings address legal motions, evidence admissibility, and potential plea negotiations. If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. Should the defendant be found guilty, a sentencing hearing determines the appropriate punishment. Throughout this process, defendants have the right to legal representation.

Context & Background

Domestic disputes can sometimes escalate to violence, with tragic outcomes. Kingsport, a city in Sullivan County, reported a total of four homicides in 2022, according to data from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Such incidents underscore the complexities and potential dangers within family dynamics. Law enforcement agencies frequently respond to calls related to domestic disturbances, which can sometimes involve allegations of assault or other violent acts.

Recognizing and Reporting Homicide

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, which can sometimes escalate to more serious crimes, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential support and resources 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). For emergencies or to report immediate threats, always call 911. If you have information about a crime, you can contact your local police department or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

What Happens Next

Levi Carter appeared in court for the first time following his arrest, where a request for a bond reduction to $25,000 was denied. He remains held in the Sullivan County Jail on a $500,000 bond. Carter is scheduled to appear in court again on October 14 for further proceedings in his case.