The Knoxville Police Department is investigating a shooting that happened early Monday morning in north Knoxville.

At around 4:15 a.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024, KPD officers responded to the report of a shooting at the Red Roof Inn on Central Avenue Pike. While responding to the call, officers learned that there was a female gunshot victim in the parking lot of the Hooters on Central Avenue Pike.

Officers arrived at the Hooters, where they spotted a man who was providing aid to the female victim. The man then hopped on a motorcycle and sped away from the scene. The motorcycle crashed on Cedar Lane near Haynes Sterchi Road, where the man was detained by responding officers. It was determined that the motorcycle was stolen out of Chattanooga.

Based on continued investigation, it is believed that the man and woman had gone to the Red Roof Inn and were attempting to steal another motorcycle. At some point during the attempted theft, a man fired multiple rounds, striking the woman at least one time. The man who fired shots during the encounter left the scene prior to officer arrival. His identity is unconfirmed at this time.

The female gunshot victim was transported to an area hospital in extremely critical condition, while the male who crashed on the fleeing motorcycle was transported to an area hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries from the crash.

Detectives are pursuing strong leads at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.