KNOXVILLE, TN – In a tragic incident that has left a community in shock, the death of 13-year-old Savannah Copeland has prompted a murder investigation and the arrest of a teenage suspect. The young cheerleader’s body was discovered on October 22 along a dirt walking trail in Knox County.

Authorities have detained Malakiah Lamar Harris, 15, charging him with second-degree murder. Harris appeared in court this week as prosecutors indicated their intent to try him as an adult. A hearing to determine whether he will be tried as an adult is scheduled for January 14.

Michael Copeland, Savannah’s father, registered his daughter missing after she mysteriously disappeared overnight. Despite his frantic efforts to contact her, he located her remains by tracing cellphone data in a nearby wooded area.

Court documents from a Knox County hearing revealed a chilling account of Savannah’s final moments before death. According to allegations, Harris met Savannah shortly after midnight and attacked her with a pocketknife, inflicting multiple stab wounds before leaving the scene.

The details surrounding the relationship between Savannah and Harris remain unclear, fueling community speculation and concern.

Michael Copeland, in his statements to local media, expressed his belief that the attack stemmed from a profound lack of compassion and empathy. He has emphatically requested that Harris be prosecuted as an adult, expressing a need for accountability in his daughter’s tragic passing.

As the community mourns, memories of Savannah shine brightly in those who loved her. Known for her talents in cheerleading, gymnastics, and karate, she dreamed of a future in forensic anthropology. Her school’s cheerleading squad and a poignant online obituary paint a picture of a vivacious teen with an infectious smile and boundless enthusiasm.

Friends and family continue to pay tribute to her spirit as they navigate the immense loss of a bright young life extinguished too soon. Savannah’s legacy is being honored not just in the hearts of her loved ones but also through a GoFundMe set up to commemorate her life.

Efforts to contact Harris’ legal representation have been unsuccessful, leaving many waiting for further developments in court.

As Knoxville grapples with this senseless death, the case stands as a challenging reminder of the impact of violence on youth and communities alike.