The Chattanooga Police Department made an arrest yesterday in connection with the tragic homicide that occurred on Saturday at a homeless encampment near 6800 Bonny Oaks Drive. On April 20, 2024, at 11:45 a.m., Chattanooga Police responded to a report of a deceased person in the woods near 6800 Bonny Oaks Drive. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim, later identified as 40-year-old Jonathan McClellan, deceased with an apparent injury, later confirmed to be a gunshot wound. Detective Bulkley, alongside other members of the CPD Homicide Unit, conducted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding McClellan's death. During the investigation, it was revealed that earlier that day, a separate incident involving the homicide suspect occurred in the 2400 block of Gunbarrel Road. Victim #2 (age 38) was walking in the area of 2400 Gunbarrel Road when the suspect, known as "Craig", began swinging a metal pipe at him. Victim #2 was able to get the pipe from Craig, then Craig began shooting at Victim #2. When Victim #2 got back to the homeless encampment, he found McClellan near his tent. McClellan told him that Craig was at the encampment. Victim #2 told McClellan about Craig shooting at him earlier. Victim #3 (age 39), McClellan's girlfriend, was also nearby. They all started running and trying to hide in the woods from Craig. Craig began shooting, striking and killing McClellan. The Homicide Unit were able to identify the suspect as 29-year-old Craig Lamont Jeffries. Victim #2 and Victim #3 ran from the area and were not aware that McClellan was struck. A witness that went back to the scene later found McClellan deceased and called CPD. Based on the investigation and evidence, Craig Lamont Jeffries has been charged with: - 1st Degree Murder - Attempted 1st Degree Murder - Aggravated Kidnapping (x2) - Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony He was transported to Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center. "We are deeply committed to ensuring the safety of our community. The swift arrest in connection with this tragic homicide underscores our dedication to seeking justice for the victims and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. We will continue to work tirelessly to keep Chattanooga safe for those who live, work, and visit here," said Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy. This information is preliminary and is subject to change as the investigation continues.