Former teacher charged with first-degree murder in death of mother found dead - Kingsport Times-News Online
KINGSPORT ? A former Rock Springs Elementary School teacher charged with first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse in the July 31 death of his mother was found dead Sunday at his home as a result of an apparent suicide.
Spencer Matthew Tate, 35, 160 East Ravine Road, Kingsport, was found dead in his home Sunday around 9:30 a.m. by members of the Kingsport Police Department.
Tate had apparently died as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to a KPD report.
Kingsport police said the investigation into Tate?s death is continuing.
At the time of his death, Tate was free on bond after been accused of smothering his 61-year-old mother, Nina Elkins Anders, on July 31 before setting her corpse on fire.
At the time police were investigating Anders? death, Tate claimed to have blacked out while arguing with her and awakened to find his mother dead on a bed. Tate also allegedly admitted to setting his mother?s body on fire but then put out the flames.
Blood was reportedly found on Tate?s pillow, which was the suspected murder weapon. Police alleged that Tate smothered his mother and then set the fire to cover up the crime.
Tate had last appeared in court Oct. 12, at which time his preliminary hearing was postponed until Dec. 2 because his mother?s autopsy was incomplete.
At the outset of the investigation into Anders? death, Tate was hospitalized in critical condition after reportedly overdosing on medication.
Tate had been a fifth-grade teacher at Rock Springs Elementary School since 2001.
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