BRISTOL, TN – A cold case homicide from over two decades ago has led to the indictment and arrest of an Alabama man, following a breakthrough in the long-unsolved disappearance of Cody Scott Matney.
Matney, 24, was last seen in April 2002 at a business on West State Street in Bristol, Tennessee. His car was found abandoned in the parking lot, but despite extensive searches, authorities were unable to determine his fate.
The case went cold for more than 20 years until 2024, when new information prompted detectives to reopen the investigation with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).
Their efforts led to the identification of Christopher James Havrilla, 52, as the prime suspect. Authorities allege that Havrilla kidnapped, murdered, and disposed of Matney’s body.
Indictment & Arrest
On March 12, 2025, a Sullivan County Grand Jury returned indictments against Havrilla, charging him with:
First-degree murder
First-degree murder in perpetration of kidnapping
Two days later, on March 14, Havrilla was arrested in Orange Beach, Alabama by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. He was extradited to Tennessee this week and booked into the Sullivan County Jail.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities believe others may have information regarding Matney’s disappearance and murder. They are urging anyone from Bristol, Tennessee, and Bristol, Virginia who may have knowledge of the case to come forward.
This cold case breakthrough marks a significant step toward justice for Cody Matney and his family after 23 years of unanswered questions.
