DECATUR COUNTY MAN INDICTED FOR APRIL’S FATAL BOATING INCIDENT

DECATURVILLE, Tenn. — A resident of Decatur County has been indicted following a fatal boating incident involving a 19-year-old on the Tennessee River.
On Sept. 16, 2025, a grand jury in Decatur County returned criminal indictments against Christopher Overman, age 48. These indictments are the result of an investigation into a boating incident that took place during the late hours of April 19 and the early hours of April 20, 2025, in Decatur County, Tennessee. The incident led to the death of Austin Perry, who was from Decaturville.
On September 16, 2025, Overman was arrested by TWRA Wildlife Officers and booked into the Decatur County Jail. His bond is set at $250,000. The date for his initial court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 30, 2025. The charges against him include:
· 1 count of Vehicular Homicide by Recklessness (TCA §39-13-213)
· 1 count of Vehicular Homicide Driver Intoxication (TCA §39-13-213)
· 1 count Boating Under the Influence 2nd Offense (TCA §69-9-217)
· 1 count Implied Consent Boating Enhancement (TCA §69-9-217)
· 1 count Reckless Boating with Injury (TCA §69-9-216)
· 1 count Purchasing of Alcoholic Beverages for a Child (TCA §39-15-404)
The investigation is ongoing, and any questions about the incident should be directed to the Office of the District Attorney General for the 24th Judicial District.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.