Memorial created for female victim in Meigs County tragedy

BIRCHWOOD, Tenn. (WDEF) – The woman who died when a Meigs County Deputy drove into the Tennessee River last week is being remembered by many. 

A memorial to Tabitha Smith, who died in the tragedy on the night of February 14, sits in Meigs County right next to the Blythe Ferry boat ramp where she died. 

PHOTO: Tabitha Smith, the woman who died when investigators say a Meigs County Deputy drove into the Tennessee River on the night of February 14, 2024.

Friends called Tabitha Smith, “Tabby”, a woman who they want the public as much more than the woman who died in a tragedy.

One friend, Emilie Neusel, said, “She was a happy person, outgoing, she loved life. “

Another friend, Sheena Mchome, said, “She was a mother, daughter, friend, sister.”

Investigators say Smith was still in handcuffs when she was found Thursday in the back of a Meigs County Patrol Vehicle.

Neusel said, “I could not imagine being trapped and knowing my life was going to end.”

The memorial that has been placed where numerous people have come to pay their condolences, even complete strangers.

Paying his respects was all Taylor Kite could do for now.

Kite said, “Something was just drawing me here like I had to, like I know neither of them. I didn’t have any flowers, I have nothing, so I wrote a little note, set it there, I mean I had to do something.”

Seeing the site of the crash continues to raise safety concerns.

Kite said, “I don’t know what they can do about a fence, barricade, something.”

 Smith’s friends recalled her personality.

Mchome said, “She had a heart of gold and despite any struggles and troubles she had she was a great person…I hope they remember her by her name. Tabby Smith. And I hope she’s remembered as more than the girl in the back seat.”

Smith was 35 years old and is survived by a husband and two children.