An 18-year-old Knoxville man has been charged with first-degree murder after police say his 3-month-old son died from severe injuries while in his care.
According to the Knoxville Police Department (KPD), officers were called to an apartment at 322 Forestal Drive around 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025, after receiving reports of an unresponsive infant. When officers arrived, they found the baby boy in critical condition.
The child was rushed to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, but despite efforts from medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after midnight. Investigators later confirmed that the infant had suffered multiple severe injuries.
Authorities identified the child’s father, Adrien Dokes, 18, as the caregiver at the time of the incident. Dokes was detained at the scene and later questioned by both the KPD Homicide Unit and Special Crimes detectives. Following the interviews and evidence gathered, Dokes was formally charged with first-degree murder “in perpetuation of aggravated child abuse,” police said.
The Knox County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Dokes remains in custody as the investigation continues. No bond has been set, given the severity of the charges, according to WBIR.
Officials said the victim’s body will undergo an autopsy at the Regional Forensic Center. The procedure is expected to provide further details on the exact cause of death and the full extent of the child’s injuries.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” a KPD spokesperson said. “The loss of a child under these circumstances is devastating, and our department will ensure a thorough investigation into every aspect of this case.”
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, and police have not released additional details about what led to the child’s fatal injuries. Dokes is expected to make an initial court appearance in the coming days. If convicted, he could face a life sentence under Tennessee law.
Community advocates noted that cases of child abuse often leave lasting scars not only on families but also on the wider community. “Every child deserves to be safe, especially in their own home,” one advocate said, emphasizing the importance of prevention and early intervention in child welfare cases.