A multi-agency manhunt continues for a suspect wanted for the murder of a 33-year-old McMinnville resident last week.
Reece Bishop was shot and killed at his Lind Street home after two masked men barged in around midnight last Friday. Two people have been arrested in connection with the crime.
Lamont Malone, 43, is charged with felony murder and especially aggravated burglary and remains held in jail on $1.5 million bond. Law enforcement officials believe he is one of the two men who allegedly broke into Bishop’s home.
Celeste Jones, 38, is charged with providing false information to a police detective. It is believed she lied to police when asked about the whereabouts of her car the night of the murder. The car was reportedly driven by the two suspects to Lind Street.
Malone and Jones were both arraigned this week and have been assigned attorneys. The Public Defender’s Office will represent Malone, while attorney Daniel Barnes will represent Jones. Their next court appearance is set for Feb. 19.
It is believed authorities know the identity of the second masked suspect who entered Bishop’s home, but that has not been confirmed. The District Attorney’s Office and McMinnville Police Department have revealed no specifics about their investigation, but say they are devoting all available resources to finding the people responsible.
The TBI is spearheading the case.
“The investigation continues to be a very active and ongoing investigation,” said TBI spokesperson Susan Niland.
It is unknown who police think pulled the trigger of the gun which shot Bishop. Police would not reveal where they think the uncaptured suspect may be hiding, although it is believed the investigation is focused outside Warren County.
As for publically identifying the suspect and asking for the public’s assistance in locating him, that has not been done.
The Standard continues to monitor the case and will provide updates online as soon as new information becomes available.
Bishop was a basketball star who played for the WCHS Pioneers from 2002-2004. His memorial service is Saturday at 2 p.m. at High Funeral Home.
