KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville community is reeling from two devastating incidents that have unfolded over recent weeks, one a tragic motorcycle crash claiming a life in West Knoxville and the other an ongoing manhunt for a suspect accused of a brutal murder earlier this month.
**Fatal Motorcycle Crash Claims Life in West Knoxville
On the early morning of Saturday, July 19, 2025, a fatal collision occurred on South Northshore Drive in West Knoxville, according to the Knoxville Police Department (KPD). At approximately 1:15 a.m., a motorcycle and a Dodge Durango collided, resulting in the death of the motorcycle’s passenger, identified as 34-year-old Jasmine Taylor, a beloved Knoxville resident known for her vibrant personality and passion for riding. Taylor was pronounced dead at the scene.
The motorcycle’s driver, 36-year-old Darius Benson, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition as of Saturday evening. The KPD has not yet released specific details about the cause of the crash, stating that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities noted that both vehicles were traveling along South Northshore Drive at the time of the collision.
Taylor’s loss has deeply affected her loved ones, with social media filled with heartfelt tributes describing her as “fearless,” “full of laughter,” and someone who “brought light to everyone around her.”
**Manhunt Continues for Suspect in Michael Velasquez Murder
In a separate and equally heartbreaking case, the Knoxville Police Department continues its search for 28-year-old Wayne Parham, who is wanted for the second-degree murder of 48-year-old Michael Velasquez. The killing took place on July 6, 2025, at an apartment complex on the 800 block of Howard Baker Jr. Avenue in East Knoxville.
According to police reports, Velasquez was fatally shot following a dispute with Parham, who allegedly struck him with a hammer before firing the fatal shot. Emergency responders found Velasquez unresponsive at the scene, where he was pronounced dead. The brutality of the attack has left the community shaken.
One individual, 35-year-old Kristin Drollinger, has been arrested and charged with accessory after the fact for allegedly assisting Parham in evading authorities after the shooting. Despite this arrest, Parham remains at large, and the KPD has intensified efforts to locate him.
Velasquez was a devoted father to his 5-year-old autistic and non-verbal son, Oliver. His former partner, Kendra Spangler, spoke of his dedication as a parent, describing him as having a “tough exterior but a heart of gold” when it came to their son. “Mike always made sure Ollie’s needs were met,” Spangler said. “He was either with him or working hard to provide for us. This loss has shattered our world.”
Recalling the traumatic moment she discovered Velasquez’s body, Spangler said, “I stepped out to get breakfast that morning. When I returned, I saw someone lying in the walkway and didn’t realize it was Mike at first. The realization hit me like a wave, and I just ran inside to call the police. It’s something I’ll never unsee.” She added that Parham, a neighbor, remains a looming threat. “Knowing he’s still out there keeps me on edge. If he could do this to Mike, no one is safe.”
**KPD’s Commitment to Justice
Knoxville Police Department spokesperson Scott Erland emphasized the department’s dedication to both cases. “Our detectives are deeply invested in bringing justice for Michael Velasquez and his family,” Erland said. “They know the victims, they’ve spoken with loved ones, and they are using every resource available to apprehend Wayne Parham.”
The KPD is urging anyone with information about Parham’s whereabouts to contact the East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers at 865-215-7165. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest. A GoFundMe has also been established to support Velasquez’s son, Oliver, as the family navigates this profound loss.
