Individuals identified from Reelfoot Spillway surveillance cameras

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has identified the four individuals who were caught on security cameras at the Reelfoot Lake spillway gate in Lake County on Aug. 24, 2025, at approximately 11 p.m.

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“We want to thank the public for their numerous tips that led to the quick identification of those involved,” said TWRA Col. Dale Grandstaff. “Names will not be released pending further investigation. We will be working with the local District Attorney’s office and Agency partners to finalize the investigation.”

TWRA staff were notified that a spillway gate was open and discharging at approximately 8 a.m. on Aug. 25. The Agency immediately contacted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to verify they had not opened the gate for management purposes. Upon confirmation that it should not be open, TWRA staff began the manual shutdown procedure for the spillway gate.

Surveillance video for the property revealed a group of four males entering the area through the rear gate. While inside the compound, they accessed the manual override switch for the spillway gate opening operation. One spillway gate was opened to full capacity.

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