Devonte Saddler
Police say Devonte Saddler has told a state's witness that he was one of three men at the scene when a woman was shot and killed at Renaissance Park on July 16, 2017.
Saddler, 23, of 2013 E. 5th St., was arrested last week on first-degree murder and especially aggravate robbery charges in the death of Kathy Hardy.
Her husband, Shawn Hardy, jumped from a pier into the Tennessee River and was able to swim to safety.
He afterward identified Tyree Corley as the gunman who fatally shot his wife.
Corley was arrested and charged with felony murder and especially aggravated robbery. However, a week after his arrest he attempted suicide in jail and later died from his injuries.
Police are still looking for the third suspect.
Shawn Hardy said three black males were involved in the incident. He said they approached and demanded money. He said he handed over his wallet, glasses and cellphone.
He said Corley then fired three shots, including one that hit his wife.
Police said a witness reported seeing three black males in a "brisk" and "determined" walk leaving Renaissance Park just after the shooting. They were caught on video at 100 Cherokee Blvd. getting in a white Dodger Charger. Police said the Charger was stopped on W. 38th Street a few hours before the shooting. There were three black males inside, including Saddler, it was stated.
Nine days later, the 2008 white Dodge Charger was recovered by police.
The state's witness said Saddler confessed more than once to assaulting Shawn Hardy and going through the pockets of the couple, but not to shooting anyone.