TOP PHOTO: Criminal Court Judge Zack Walden presiding.
UPDATE: WLAF's Susan Sharp is bringing you gavel to gavel coverage again today. Look for her updates here through the day.
5:50PM- The defendant, Brian Allen, has given emotional testimony this afternoon. He described a family who enjoyed several activities and spending time together. He said until 2020, Ausmus was able to do many things independently. The family was living in California at that time, and his son suffered a seizure that resulted in a 15-day hospital stay. Allen said everything changed after that. Heather Allen is expected to take the stand tomorrow.
4:50PM- “He had every seizure on the spectrum,” Brian Allen (photo below) testified. Keeping Ausmus in a routine was “very important".
4:33PM- Defendant Brian Allen (above) has taken the stand.
3:20PM- Dr. Meredith Frame, a forensic pathologist testifying for the defense reviewed Ausmus’ medical records, said his death was “natural.”
1:45PM- Dr. Adam Tyson, UT Palliative Care, testified about Ausmus and quality of life. A letter written to the Allens from Tyson was shown to the jury. In the letter he called them “amazing parents.” When he was cross-examined by prosecutors about this situation he said “Life is more complex than details.”
JACKSBORO, TN. (WLAF)- Today is day four in Heather and Brian Allen's murder trial at the Campbell County Justice Center. The Allens are accused of killing their son, Tanner Ausmus. The couple is charged with first degree murder.
TOP PHOTO: Criminal Court Judge Zach Walden is presiding over the trial.
Ausmus died in 2023. The autopsy report said Ausmus had suffered from swelling of the brain, respiratory failure and dehydration. Along with these conditions, the 19-year-old’s muscles had started to break down, releasing toxins into his system. His kidneys and liver failed as well, according to the report. An eight man, six woman jury is hearing the testimony.
On Friday, the state rested its case. When court begins at 1 pm today, the defense team will have an opportunity to let the jury hear its side. Last week in court, T. Scott Jones, Heather Allen's attorney, didn't rule out his client testifying.
WLAF's Susan Sharp brings you gavel to gavel coverage again today. Look for her updates right here through the day.
(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 9/28/2026-6AM)
