Macon County and the Franklin Police Dept. are mourning the loss of police officer Marcus McCarson. He was 21.
McCarson died on Thursday in an off-duty accident while riding his motorcycle. He leaves behind his wife, Abby, and two-month-old daughter Azzi.
In his official obituary, his family wrote that, “Marcus proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and continued his commitment to service as a police officer with the Franklin Police Department.”
In a Facebook post, the Franklin Police Department shared the grief felt by all its officers and family.
It is with profound sadness and very heavy hearts that we share the passing of one of our own.
Franklin Police Department Officer Marcus McCarson tragically died yesterday, September 17, 2026, in a two-vehicle collision while off-duty doing what he loved: riding his motorcycle.
He was only 21 years of age, and had just begun his law enforcement career with the FPD in December 2025. Before joining law enforcement he served in the United States Marine Corps.
He was a devoted husband to his amazing wife Abby, and became a new father just two months ago to his precious daughter Azzi. He was also very cherished by his own family, as well as, Abby’s family who treated him like their own.
Marcus was loved like a little brother by everyone here at the PD. He served the Town of Franklin with the utmost professionalism and integrity for which we are most grateful.
Please keep his family, friends, and our department in your thoughts and prayers during the grieving days ahead.
Franklin proclamation
The Town of Franklin also released a proclamation, signed by Mayor Stacy Guffey, honoring the life, commitment and service of McCarson.
GoFundMe
To help the young family with expenses, a GoFundME campaign was set up by his wife Abby.
So far, the campaign raised nearly $15,000. Click here to donate.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
- The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 22nd, 11am-1pm at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
- A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Rev. David Dickerson will officiate. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.