A Tennessee man was convicted of wanton murder and other charges in Casey Circuit Court yesterday in the death of an Adair County child stemming from a fatal wreck in December 2024.
47-year-old Joel Hammack was found guilty on charges of wanton murder, two counts of assault first degree, two counts of assault fourth degree and possession of marijuana.
The trial began Monday and concluded yesterday with the guilty verdict. The Adair County Community Voice reported the jury recommended three life sentences for Hammack. He will appear in court for formal sentencing next month.
State Police say Hammack was driving under the influence on December 21, 2024 when he struck another vehicle on the Columbia Bypass, resulting in the death of 7-year-old Rose Morgan.
The trial was moved to Casey County after the judge granted a motion to move the trial out of Adair County. Hammack’s attorney raised concerns that he would not be able to receive a fair trial in Adair County due to the public’s extensive knowledge of the case.
The Adair County Community Voice has a full recap of the trial on their website at adairvoice.com.
