The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office is announcing a significant development in the ongoing investigation of the murder of Jacob Bishop, a dedicated member of the Tennessee Army National Guard, who was tragically killed on October 1st, 2019, in Lenoir City.
On August 13th, 2024, Detectives and Deputies from the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office arrested Eric Austin Byrd, 39, of Lenoir City, TN, and Amanda James Bishop, 39, of Kingston, TN, (Spouse of Jacob Bishop), in connection with the murder of Jacob Bishop. The arrests were made after a thorough and comprehensive investigation that involved collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation , FBI – Knoxville, United States Secret Service, US Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms (ATF), Maryville Police Department-TN, Lenoir City Police Department, Knoxville Police Department – TN, Sulphur Springs Police Department, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Texas, Roane County Sheriff’s Office, Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, TN, Union County Sheriff’s Office – Tennessee, 9th Judicial Drug Task Force, 9th District Attorney Generals Office, Russell Johnson – 9th Judicial District, District Attorney General, Knox County Regional Forensic Center and the Regional Organized Crime Information Center (ROCIC).
Jacob Bishop was found deceased at his home in Lenoir City on the morning of October 1st, 2019, by his mother. Jacob suffered from multiple gunshot wounds and was bound by zip-ties. Immediately a homicide investigation began that spanned over the next almost five years.
“Today’s arrests mark a crucial step towards justice for Jacob Bishop and his family” said Sheriff Jimmy Davis. “This case has remained a top priority for our office, and I commend the relentless efforts of our detectives and partner agencies who have worked tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.”
Jacob Bishop was a dedicated member of the Tennessee Army National Guard and beloved family member. Their loss has been deeply felt by the community. The investigation faced numerous challenges, but advancements in technology and new evidence allowed the case to progress.
The suspects are currently being held at the Loudon County Detention Center and are facing charges including 1st Degree Murder and both have bonds set at $1,000,000. The 9th District Attorney’s Office will be handling the prosecution of this case.
“We hope that these arrests bring some measure of peace to Jacob Bishop’s family and all those affected by this senseless tragedy,” added Sheriff Jimmy Davis.
The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office will continue to provide updates as the case progresses. We thank the community for their support and patience throughout this investigation.
As a disclaimer, Sheriff Jimmy Davis and his team personally visited the house of Jacob Bishop’s family and informed them of this news prior to anything being released on social media and the news.
