Former All-American UTC Wrestler Shot and Killed

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The Marion County Sheriff says the man who actually pulled the trigger Friday night is not currently facing any charges at this time, as the shooting is still under investigation.

The former All-American UTC wrestler, Matthew Keller is no longer with us, after he was shot and killed late Friday night.

“When patrol officers arrived, they did find a person deceased on the porch, which turned out to be Mr. Keller.”, said Sheriff Bo Burnett.

Marion County Sheriff Bo Burnett says the 32 year old was shot around 10:30 that night on the 12-thousand block of Mullins Cove Road.

According to the Sherriff, Keller and a woman were camping in the area at the time. The homeowner, who has not been identified, told deputies the two came up to his house.

That’s when the homeowner says a confrontation broke out, Keller rushed him, and was shot.

“The home owner has basically stated, that you know, he was protecting himself and his family and stuff.”

And because of state gun laws, the homeowner may never face charges.

“The homeowner has the same rights as a police officer, you know, if you’re in fear of danger you have a right to use deadly force to protect yourself.”

News 12 reached out to the homeowner, who didn’t have much to say.

Most recently, Keller took a break from his award-winning wrestling career to teach yoga classes in the Chattanooga area.

“It’s something that I hate to see on both sides, but this is a rare thing this ain’t something that we have to deal with on a daily basis. So yea it is rare.”

The woman who was also camping with Keller in the woods that night has been charged with public intoxication, trespassing and resisting arrest.

She made bond, and was released earlier today.