UPDATE: The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) identified four individuals on security cameras responsible for vandalism at the Reelfoot Lake spillway gate on August 24, 2025, around 11:00pm.

“We want to thank the public for their numerous tips that led to the quick identification of those involved,” said TWRA Col. Dale Grandstaff. “Names will not be released pending further investigation. We will be working with the local District Attorney’s office and Agency partners to finalize the investigation.”

TWRA staff were first notified that a spillway gate was open and discharging at around 8:00am on August 25. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) confirmed they had not opened the gate for management purposes, prompting TWRA to initiate a manual shutdown procedure.

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