MEIGS COUNTY, Tenn. — Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly said the cruiser was found in the Hiwassee River. The District Attorney later specified it was found in the Tennessee River, and the story was updated.
District Attorney Russell Johnson said the woman who died after a Meigs County deputy accidentally drove into the Tennessee River with her in the backseat was identified as Tabitha Smith. Johnson also said her family was notified about her death.
On Wednesday night, Deputy RJ Leonard responded to a call and arrested a woman. While transporting her to jail, Leonard accidentally drove off Blythe Ferry Lane into the Hiwassee River, according to Johnson.
Neither Leonard nor Smith survived, Johnson said.
Leonard's cruiser was found in the river Thursday morning. Smith's body, covered in a deep layer of mud and silt, was found in the backseat. She was handcuffed, according to Johnson.
Leonard's body was found submerged, Johnson said.
"It's a hard time here for us today," Meigs County Sheriff's Office Chief Brian Malone said in a press conference. "Something we don't ever deal with here in Meigs County. We're a small, rural county, we're not used to it."
Johnson said that people drive into the Tennessee River while traveling on Blythe Ferry Lane somewhat frequently.
Leonard had only recently begun working as a Meigs County deputy. He was from New York and graduated from the academy in December.
During a press conference, Judge Casey Stokes said the road can be dangerous, especially at night and for people who aren't familiar with the area.
"It can be a very dangerous spot for folks that aren't local," Stokes said.
According to Johnson, Leonard leaves behind a wife and three kids.