NEWPORT (WATE) - One of two suspects in a triple homicide in Cocke County was formally charged Monday. The other suspect is expected to be charged Tuesday.
Prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if the suspects are convicted.
Adam Lawton Edwards, 43, and Marsha Gail Shelton, 29, are accused of killing Terri Henderson, her boyfriend Sherman Ellison, and their two-year-old son Riley in May.
Edwards was arraigned Monday morning in a Cocke County court and charged with three counts of first degree murder. He was also arraigned on several related charges, including arson and aggravated robbery.
During the hearing state prosecutors entered a motion to seek the death penalty. A plea date on that motion was set for Sept. 24.
Edwards and Shelton were caught and arrested in the Cherokee National Forest three days after the family of three was found dead in the burnt rubble of their mobile home.
The suspects have lengthy criminal histories, including drug and theft charges. At the time of their arrests they were both wanted on warrants for probation violations.
Adam Lawton Edwards (source: Haywood County Sheriff's Office)
Marsha Gail Shelton (source: Haywood County Sheriff's Office)
