66-Year-Old Woman Shot and Killed in Fatal Fire in Cumberland County: Investigation Underway

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – A shocking revelation has been made in the investigation of a fatal fire in Cumberland County, Tennessee. Authorities have discovered that a 66-year-old woman was shot before her house was set on fire.

The incident took place on December 3, when the Cumberland County Fire Department responded to a fully engulfed residence on Flathead Road in Crossville. Tragically, one person was found dead inside the home, later identified as Gale Meister, 66. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Meister died from a gunshot wound, not the fire.

Upon further investigation, it was revealed that 57-year-old Frank Lackey was living with Meister. Both of their vehicles were missing from the scene, and it was later determined that Lackey was in Rutherford County. A Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) agent spotted Lackey in Meister’s vehicle, and a Rutherford County Sheriff’s deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop. However, before the deputy could approach him, Lackey took his own life.

Sheriff Casey Cox expressed his condolences to Meister’s family and friends, hoping that the conclusion of the investigation would bring some measure of closure to them. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office is treating this incident as a domestic homicide, arson, and suicide.

This shocking turn of events has left the community in shock and mourning. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting and the circumstances leading up to the fire. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities.

Meanwhile, residents are urged to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The community is coming together to support Meister’s family during this difficult time, offering their condolences and assistance in any way they can.

For more information and updates on this investigation, please visit the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office website.