Gunfire Erupts After Tennessee State University Homecoming Parade, Leaves 1 Dead and 9 Injured

A 24-year-old man was fatally shot, while nine others, including three juveniles, sustained injuries when gunfire erupted on Jefferson Street on Saturday at Tennessee State University following its homecoming parade. 

According to Nashville police, the violence resulted from an exchange of fire between two groups situated on opposite sides of the street. Police spokesman Don Aaron confirmed that shell casings found at the scene indicated multiple shooters were involved. The incident occurred shortly after the parade concluded, as crowds remained in the area.

Among the injured were three children—a 12-year-old and two 14-year-olds—whose injuries have been reported as non-critical. The deceased victim has not been identified, and authorities have yet to confirm whether any of the victims were students at the university. Some victims were grazed by bullets, while others suffered more severe wounds.

“A total of 10 gunshot wound victims are now at area hospitals,” the Metro Nashville Police Department tweeted. “Five were transported by Nashville Fire Department, while five others arrived in private vehicles. At least one of the injured is suspected to have been involved in the gunfire.”

In the aftermath, police located a gun in the street and believe handguns were used in the altercation. Detectives are currently interviewing victims and reviewing surveillance footage to piece together the events leading to the shooting. Investigators are also working to determine the exact number of shooters involved.

Simultaneously, reports emerged of shots fired at nearby Nissan Stadium, where the university's homecoming football game was taking place. Officials are investigating this separate incident, although no victims have been found at the stadium.

Nashville Fire Department personnel on the scene, some there to enjoy the festivities, quickly sprang into action to assist the wounded. Firefighters reported using their belts as tourniquets to help victims.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell expressed his sorrow over the incident, condemning the violence in a social media post. “What was a joyous atmosphere is tonight very different because of a senseless act of violence carried out by people who didn’t care who else might be caught in the crossfire,” he wrote. “Sadly, many in our community are familiar with the pain inflicted by gun violence.”