Former Smith Co. Deputy Indicted on Homicide Charges

47-year-old Keith Holder of Carthage faces multiple homicide charges following the drowning death of Donovan Crittendon in Trousdale County last June. (Photo: TBI)

Authorities have arrested a former Smith County deputy after being indicted on homicide charges.

The TBI announced Tuesday 47-year-old Keith Holder of Carthage faces charges in connection with the drowning death of Donovan Crittendon in Trousdale County last June.

The TBI reports Holder intentionally wrecked his personal vehicle into the Cumberland River with Crittendon as the passenger. Holder escaped the vehicle and swam to shore. Crittendon died at the scene when the vehicle submerged beneath the water.

The report indicates Holder was a deputy with the Smith County Sheriff’s Office at the time of the accident but was off-duty when the accident occurred.

Holder faces multiple charges including one count each of homicide by intoxication, vehicular homicide by recklessness, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene of an accident involving death. Holder also faces DUI and fraud insurance claim charges as well.

Authorities arrested Holder at his Carthage residence Tuesday and booked him into the Trousdale County Jail under $75,000.