Kingston police, medics and the rescue squad went to an area off of North Kentucky Avenue behind the Food City plaza today for a deceased male. The body of Oliver Springs Police Officer James Perkins was discovered in a vehicle in the Martin Shoals area of the Clinch River near a private boat dock. Authorities say at present time the cause of death is drowning. Police added the automobile floated downstream from another location. Officers say foul play is not suspected.

A full report of the incident is expected to be released at a later time.

The Oliver Springs Police Department issued the following statement late today:

“It is with our deepest regret that we inform you of the off duty passing of Officer James D. Perkins. James Perkins has been an officer since 2006 working with the Rockwood Police Department, Roane State Community College Police Department, Springs City Police Department, and with the Oliver Springs Police Department. Officer James Perkins was an outstanding police officer and spent a lot of his time dedicated to the citizens in our area. We thank you Officer James D. Perkins for your service.”

Photo by Paul Young