On May 31, 2026, Deputy Zachary Early responded to a reported stabbing on Short Rd in Crossville. The victim, who had been stabbed in the left arm above the elbow, was treated at Cumberland County Medical Center. He reported being suddenly approached and stabbed by a shorter male with brown hair while in the bathroom/bedroom area, with no prior fight or argument. His friends pulled the attacker off him before the suspect fled.

Deputy Early contacted Investigator Kollros, who responded to the hospital and later accompanied him to the scene. Witnesses identified the suspect as Dylan Caleb Howard, describing him as wearing a black shirt and shorts, and confirmed there was no prior conflict before the unprovoked stabbing. After obtaining an address, deputies located Howard less than half a mile away on County Grange Rd. He matched the witness description but was uncooperative and unwilling to speak.

Dylan Caleb Howard was arrested on-view by Deputy Zachary Early early on June 1, 2026, and charged with aggravated assault. The report was approved by Sergeant Norman Seiber.

The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.