Christopher Overman Pleads Guilty in Boat Death, Sentenced to Eight Years

Christopher Overman, 49, a Decatur County resident, entered a guilty plea and was sentenced March 3, 2026, at the Decatur County Courthouse to serve eight years at 100 percent in the Tennessee Department of Corrections, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency said.

The TWRA press release states, “On April 20, 2025, Overman operated a vessel while impaired that was involved in a boating incident that occurred during the late hours of April 19 and the early hours of April 20, 2025, in Decatur County, Tennessee.” The agency’s account places the crash within the late‑night span between April 19 and April 20 on the Tennessee River.

“This incident resulted in the death of Austin Perry, a resident of Decaturville,” the TWRA release said, identifying the victim by name and hometown. No age for Perry was provided in the release.

The agency summed up the courtroom outcome in clear terms: “On March 3, 2026, 49‑year‑old Christopher Overman entered the guilty plea at the Decatur County Courthouse and was sentenced to serve eight years at 100 percent in the Tennessee Department of Corrections.” The release did not provide the name of the presiding judge, the prosecutor, defense counsel, or details of any plea agreement.

TWRA used the case to underscore waterway enforcement and safety priorities. The release said, “The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency reminds the public about the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol is the leading cause of recreational boating deaths. TWRA officers are always on patrol, watching for impaired operators.” The release also included TWRA’s mission statement on protecting fish and wildlife and maintaining public safety on waterways.

Public records such as the Decatur County court docket and Tennessee Department of Corrections intake will be needed to confirm the judge’s minute entry, docket number, and how the 100 percent designation will be applied administratively. The TWRA statement frames the conviction as part of broader enforcement on the Tennessee River and reinforces the agency’s warning about alcohol-related boating risks for Decatur County boaters and visitors.