Officials identify body found in Holston River

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office have identified a body that was discovered in the Holston River near Morristown river.

Authorities identified the body as Randy D. Benton, 51, who was found in the Holston River in Hawkins County near Christian's Bend boat ramp.

A man who was fishing called authorities when he saw what appeared a body under a tree. According to investigators, the body had been in the water for several days.

A preliminary autopsy revealed there was no visible blunt trauma.

The investigation remainsl ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Hawkins County Sheriff's Office Detective Divison at (423-272-6514) or TWRA.

It is unclear at this time as to whether this is a boating related incident. We will provide further details as they are provided.