Chattanooga: 20-year-old shot to death on his porch; suspect in custody

Wendell Washington

Blood splatter still stained the porch where 20-year-old Wendell Washington drew his last breaths after shots were exchanged with another gunman late Sunday night, according to Chattanooga police.

Homicide detectives late Monday said they have a suspect in custody who is currently at a local hospital being treated for a gunshot wound he received during the altercation last night.

The suspect is under 24-hour watch and faces charges of criminal homicide and possession of a weapon during the commission of a dangerous felony, police said. Due to security issues, the suspect's name and condition were not released and he is not allowed any visitors, police said.

Washington was shot about 11:15 p.m. at 3687 Northrop St. in Lupton City. Homes dot the hill line, some worn weary from the elements and in need of repair while others were freshly renovated.

The blue home marked with a no-trespassing sign where Washington was shot in the chest had an oxygen mask left on the rail of the porch. Yellow crime scene tape marked the nearby power pole.