Mayor Matheny passes away unexpectedly

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Coffee County Mayor Judd Matheny was found dead at his home Tuesday. The mayor’s office confirmed his passing early Tuesday afternoon. However, no cause of death has been revealed.

At the request of 14th Judicial District Attorney General Craig Northcott, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation special agents are working with the Tullahoma Police Department and the DA’s Office in a death investigation.

Northcott said during a press conference Tuesday that Matheny’s death was “unintentional and unexpected.”

Northcott said there was no trauma to Matheny’s body nor any indication of foul play.
 
The investigation is ongoing and the cause of death could take months for the medical examiners report to be finished.
 
“At this point there is no evidence of trauma to the body of Judd Matheny,” Northcott said. “There is no evidence of foul play nor is there any evidence of self-inflicted injuries or suicidal intention.”   

Northcott also asked for privacy for the Matheny’s family and requested the public not to spread rumors. 

“I think it’s important to remember that there are family and friends involved in this situation that such speculation does great harm,”    

TBI Public Information Officer Susan Niland said that the Tullahoma Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call shortly after noon on Tuesday, April 2. 

She said that officers found Matheny deceased in a vehicle in the driveway at the Tullahoma residence.

The TBI said an autopsy will be conducted. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

County Chairman Pro Tem Commissioner Denis Hunt will assume the role of mayor.

“We are waiting on the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office and the Secretary of State to weigh in on this to make sure we follow proper protocols,” Hunt said.

Hunt said that the county government will pull together and to take the necessary steps moving forward.  

According to a statement from the Tullahoma Police Department, the department received a call reporting a possible death at East Lincoln Street, and upon arrival the body of Matheny was discovered deceased. 

“The Tullahoma Police Department expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Coffee County Mayor Judd Matheny,” the statement reads. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and constituents during this difficult time. Mayor Matheny dedicated his life to serving our community, both as a successful businessman, farmer, and as a committed public servant. His leadership and dedication will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

Police officials added that the investigation is ongoing, and has been handed over to Tennessee Bureau of Investigations.

“We extend our support to all those affected by this loss.”

Matheny was serving his first term as Coffee County mayor after being elected in 2022. Prior to that time, Matheny, a businessman and farmer, had served Coffee and Warren County in the State House as State Representative for several terms. Matheny was 53 at the time of his passing.

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