A homicide investigation is underway in Jefferson County after someone found a bag containing human remains along the shore of Douglas Lake.

Deputies were sent to Lake Ridge Drive on Sunday afternoon about a suspicious bag along the lakeshore. The caller said he found the bag while walking along his property. Deputies determined the bag contained human remains.

“It is scary to think that it is something that has come into this town,” said Stacy Hall, who lives in Dandridge. 

Hall says she lives near where the body was found and is concerned about community safety. 

The remains were sent to the Forensics Center in Knoxville for examination.

The Jefferson County County Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday the victim appeared to be an adult male. He was wearing a “Walking Dead” T-shirt and blue jeans, and they were able to recover the name “Gerald” from the clothing.

Other residents in the area say they believe it’s an isolated incident. 

“I still feel like it’s a good place to be and live. I have kayaks, we go all the time, so I’ll still be out there,” said Paula Mcintyre, who lives in Dandridge.  

Anyone who has information is asked to call (865) 397-9411.

The sheriff’s office, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and attorney general’s office are investigating.