In the spring of 2014, a hunting trip in the fields of Richard City, Tennessee, ended in tragedy for two lifelong best friends. On the morning of Thursday, April 3rd, Stanley “Ramsay” Whitten, a 41-year-old man, was turkey hunting with his friend, Virgil McNeese, who was the Police Chief of nearby Monteagle. The outing, which also included Whitten's son, took a devastating turn when McNeese accidentally shot Whitten.
The serene morning was shattered by the sound of a single gunshot
that echoed across the pasture. Immediately following the incident, Whitten’s son ran to a nearby home to summon help. Emergency services responded quickly, and Whitten was airlifted to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, his injuries were too severe. After being declared brain dead, Stanley “Ramsay” Whitten was removed from life support and passed away on Friday, April 4, 2014.
The news of the fatal accident sent shockwaves through the small Tennessee community. McNeese, a veteran law enforcement officer who had served on the Monteagle police force for 19 years and as its chief since 2006, was faced with the devastating reality of having unintentionally taken the life of his closest friend. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, along with Marion County detectives, launched an investigation into the shooting.
The case was turned over to the District Attorney, Mike Taylor, to determine whether any criminal charges would be filed against Virgil McNeese. While the overwhelming sentiment from those who knew both men was that this was a heartbreaking accident, the matter was subject to a thorough legal review. The community was left to mourn the loss of a beloved friend and family man, while also grappling with the profound grief and difficult circumstances faced by the police chief who was responsible for the accidental death of his best friend.
