Athens Shooting: Update

ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) – Three people are dead after a shooting at a business in Athens.

It happened on Dennis Street, at Thomas and Betts.

McMinn County Officials say the dead include two victims, and the shooter, who killed himself.

McMinn County Sheriff Joe Guy says they are not releasing the names at this time.

During the shooting incident, McMinn County High School was briefly locked down.

All of the students have been sent home now.

Thomas and Betts is a construction service and supply company.

We will have more information as it becomes available.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation just released the names of the victim’s in the shooting.

The first is 44-year-old James Zotter and the second is 68-year-old Sandra Cooley who was fatally wounded.

45-year-old Ricky Swafford is the name of the shooter. Charges are currently pending as the investigation continues.

The follow is a quote from the plant where the shooting happened:

“Our loss is profound. The ABB family is shocked and saddened by the tragedy at our Thomas & Betts facility in Athens, Tennessee on Thursday afternoon. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families during this difficult time. We will have grief counselors available to all of our employees at the facility. ABB is working closely with authorities to cooperate and assist in their investigation,” stated ABB.