COLLEGEDALE — Kian Andrew Neal, 18, was charged with criminal homicide, especially aggravated burglary, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and death under suspicious circumstances in Collegedale, Tennessee.

Collegedale Police opened a missing persons investigation on May 24 after family members reported Robert George Locke, 56, missing since May 21. Locke was last seen by his mother having dinner at their Camp Road property on May 21. She observed lights on at his home between 1:30 a.m. and 2:00 a.m., and off at approximately 6:00 a.m. Agencies from Hamilton, Rhea, and Bradley counties conducted a coordinated search during the week of May 28.

A juvenile reported to police that a friend confessed to killing someone and disposing of the body. A vehicle incident occurred at 5:40 a.m. on May 22 in the 3400 block of Camp Road, 2.5 miles from Locke's residence. Neal, the sole occupant, told a deputy he had fallen asleep at the wheel. The vehicle was towed to Chattanooga before being moved to the Sheriff's Department West Annex.

Investigators applied Blue Star to the vehicle to test for trace biological evidence. Testing produced positive reactions on several items inside the vehicle, including a knife in the passenger door. Blood was confirmed on one of the items. Jack Sapp, Collegedale Chief of Police, said, "Our department is committed to pursuing the truth in every case, and this investigation reflects the tireless efforts of our officers and our partnering agencies. We extend our condolences to the family of Mr. Locke, and we appreciate the partnership of all agencies who assisted in bringing this case to a resolution." Neal is being held at the Hamilton County Jail on bonds totaling $1.2 million.