POLK COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — A Polk County woman is behind bars after allegedly shooting and killing her boyfriend.
On Friday, August 22, 2025, deputies with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) responded to 266 Grassy Creek Road in response to a shooting.
Upon arrival, deputies and EMS found 39-year-old Buell Cody Thomason deceased with an apparent gunshot wound to his face.
After conducting interviews, PCSO investigators determined that Thomason’s girlfriend, 51-year-old Rhonda Deal was the one who shot him.
Deal allegedly shot Thomason with a .410 gauge shotgun, with slug type ammunition.
According to the PCSO, the two were arguing about Thomason borrowing or taking another household resident’s bag, which he was using to carry personal items.
A witness stated that 30 minutes after the argument concluded is when the gunshot rang out.
Deal was arrested and is being charged with First Degree Murder.
She is currently being held at the Polk County Jail, and her bond has yet to be determined.
