The Pigeon Forge community is mourning the death of 22-year-old Jacob Inselmann, who was fatally shot Saturday evening in a parking lot outside Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a popular dinner attraction. The incident has led to criminal charges and an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
According to the Pigeon Forge Police Department, officers responded around 7:35 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting a gunshot in the parking area. When officers arrived, they found both Inselmann and another individual inside a vehicle at the scene. Emergency responders quickly transported Inselmann to LeConte Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Authorities have charged 24-year-old Evan Cogdill of Illinois with criminally negligent homicide in connection with Inselmann’s death. Investigators say one of the individuals inside the vehicle reported that a handgun was present and discharged inside the car, striking Inselmann. Officials have not released further details about what led up to the incident or the events immediately preceding the discharge of the firearm.
Police have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. At this time, it is unclear whether additional charges will be filed, and authorities have not confirmed further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence, review witness statements, and examine forensic findings as part of the case.
The incident, which occurred in a busy tourist area, prompted a significant law enforcement response and briefly disrupted activity near the well-known attraction. The sudden violence has left visitors and community members shaken, as authorities work to determine exactly how the situation unfolded.
Officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact the Pigeon Forge Police Department to assist with the investigation.
As the case moves forward, Jacob Inselmann is being remembered by loved ones as a young life cut short far too soon, leaving family and friends in deep mourning.
Disclaimer: This report is based on publicly available preliminary information from law enforcement sources and is intended for informational purposes. Details may be updated as the investigation continues.
