Arrest made in 2020 Ooltewah murder of hairstylist

From Local 3 News: Sanel Durakovic has been indicted and arrested for the 2020 murder of Patrick Godwin in Ooltewah, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) says.

Godwin, a local hairstylist, was shot and killed in the 8500 block of Horseshoe Bend Lane on January 7, 2020.

Durakovic was previously charged, but the case was dismissed in 2020 for further investigation, HCSO says.

Following a five-year investigation, a Grand Jury returned a True Bill for Premeditated 1st Degree Murder.

Durakovic was arrested on June 25, 2025, and is now being held in the Hamilton County Jail awaiting trial.

"The indictment and arrest of Sanel Durakovic is a crucial first step in the judicial process and the pursuit of justice for Patrick Godwin. To the family, friends, and neighbors who loved Patrick —You never stopped seeking justice, and let me assure you, neither did your Sheriff’s Office. My detectives and I have remained unwavering in our commitment to this case since it tragically occurred on the night of  January 7, 2020. The professional and diligent work of our detectives in collaboration with the District Attorney’s Office made this indictment and arrest possible. Your sheriff’s office is and will remain committed to pursuing justice for victims of violent crime and their families no matter how long it takes,” Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garret said.

“Executive Assistant District Attorney Andrew Coyle has worked hard to ensure that we are ready to prosecute the defendant all the way to trial,” said District Attorney Coty Wamp, “Most importantly, Patrick Godwin will finally have his day in court. Justice for victims of violent crime will continue to be the number one priority of my office.”