A tragic hit-and-run incident has left a local community mourning and authorities searching for answers.

Sheriff James Lee Berrong announced today that the Blount County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) Traffic Safety Unit is actively investigating the death of 70-year-old Joyce Frey. Authorities are urgently requesting the public’s help to locate a vehicle of interest involved in the fatal incident.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. this morning, deputies were dispatched to the 3800 block of Old Niles Ferry Road after receiving reports of a badly injured woman lying in a ditch.

Upon arrival, medics with the AMR Ambulance Service assessed the situation and immediately requested a Life Star helicopter. Ms. Frey, a resident of Willow Way Road in Maryville, was airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where she was tragically pronounced deceased a short time later.

Investigators believe Ms. Frey was riding her bicycle when she was struck by a vehicle that subsequently fled the scene.

Deputies are currently searching for a black or dark blue, newer model Dodge full-size pickup truck. Anyone who was traveling in or around the 3800 block of Old Niles Ferry Road this morning and may have seen this truck is urged to come forward. Additionally, residents in the area are asked to check their doorbell cameras or home security footage for any signs of the vehicle.

“I extend my deepest condolences to Ms. Frey’s family,” Sheriff Berrong said. “Our deputies are working hard to determine what led to this tragedy and who may be responsible.”

If you have any information, video footage, or tips that could assist investigators, please contact the Blount County Dispatch non-emergency number at (865) 983-3620.