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Thomas Alan Farmer, a 52-year-old man from Johnson City, has been charged with murder in connection with the overdose death of another man in the summer of 2023.

Deputies from the Carter County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Farmer on Thursday afternoon following an investigation that led to an indictment. Farmer faces charges of second-degree murder (drugs) and the sale of Schedule II drugs.

The investigation into Farmer’s alleged involvement commenced on July 1, 2023, when deputies responded to a residence in Hampton after receiving a 911 call reporting a deceased individual. Upon arrival, officers discovered evidence of drug use at the scene. An autopsy later revealed that the deceased had succumbed to a fentanyl overdose.

Subsequent inquiries revealed that the victim had procured the fatal drugs from Farmer. Following an exhaustive investigation, authorities presented the case to the Carter County grand jury on March 11, 2024, resulting in the indictment against Farmer.

Sheriff Mike Fraley commended the officers for their unwavering dedication and exhaustive efforts in probing the case. He emphasized the department’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking and holding accountable those responsible for drug-related fatalities.

Fraley stated, “Our officers are working diligently to slow down the influx of drugs into our community and to identify and prosecute those involved in drug trafficking. If you deal drugs, we will prosecute you. And if you sell drugs to someone who overdoses, you will be held accountable for the consequences.”