SINCE THE CHANNON CHRISTIAN / CHRISTOPHER NEWSOM TORTURE-MURDER CASE got a lot of blogospheric attention a while back, here’s a followup:

A house where a Knox County couple was tortured and slain was razed today. “It was an evil place,” said Gary Christian, whose 21-year-old daughter was killed inside the 2316 Chipman St. house. “I’m glad it’s gone.”

Waste Connections Inc., which is located next door to the house, bought it with the intent of tearing it down and putting in its place a memorial honoring Channon Christian and 23-year-old Christopher Newsom. Authorities allege they were kidnapped and taken to the house on Chipman Street where they both were raped and tortured. Newsom was shot, his body set on fire and left along railroad tracks on Cherry Street, according to police.

There’s been one conviction so far, in a plea bargain. As for the rest: “Letalvis Cobbins, 25, is the first of the four to face trial in Knox County Criminal Court, scheduled for Jan. 26. His girlfriend, Vanessa Coleman, 20. will be tried in April. His brother, Lemaricus Davidson, 27, faces a July trial, while pal George Thomas, 25, will stand trial in August.”