A swift investigation by the Fentress County Sheriff’s Office led to the arrest of a hit-and-run suspect just hours after a pedestrian was struck on Wednesday afternoon.

Emergency personnel and law enforcement responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on Long Point Road in Grimsley at approximately 1:55 p.m. on July 22, 2026. The victim, identified as Tony L. Crouch, was injured when the vehicle involved fled the scene before deputies arrived.

Investigators quickly identified Matthew Merz as the primary suspect. Within roughly two hours of the incident, deputies located Merz and took him into custody without incident.

However, the arrest led to an unexpected secondary discovery. While tracking down Merz, authorities located the suspect vehicle at a residence that also contained an active marijuana grow operation. Sonny Jenkins, a resident at the property, was subsequently arrested and charged with simple possession of marijuana plants.

Merz faces serious charges, including:

• Attempted Criminal Homicide

• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Bodily Injury

The Fentress County Sheriff’s Office extended its gratitude to the Tennessee Highway Patrol and local emergency medical services for their swift assistance during the response and initial investigation.

This remains an active investigation. All charges are pending, and all individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.