BLOUNTVILLE, TN (WJHL) — The Tri-Cities teen accused of murder after a shooting inside a Kingsport bar told a judge today he’s not guilty of the crime.
William Newkirk entered the plea during a hearing today in Blountville.
Newkirk was 16 years-old when Kingsport police say he shot and killed Brett Rodgers inside Hog Wild Saloon last March. Police arrested him the next day as he got off a school bus.
Newkirk, now 17-years-old is also is charged with attempted first degree murder related to the Hog Wild shooting investigation.
Newkirk lived in Bristol, Virginia at the time. He’s now being housed in a jail for adults outside the Tri-Cities.
Over the summer, judge transferred Newkirk’s case to adult court.
Newkirk’s next hearing is set for January 31st.