Nashville man kills ex-girlfriend and male companion in double shooting
NASHVILLE — A Nashville man shot and killed his ex-girlfriend and a man she was with after confronting the pair at a local business, telling witnesses “if I can’t have you, no one can,” according to police.
The shooting occurred Tuesday evening when the suspect tracked down his former girlfriend and opened fire on both victims. Police have not released the names of the victims or suspect pending notification of family members.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire and found both victims suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel pronounced both dead at the scene.
Witness Accounts
Multiple witnesses told investigators they heard the suspect make threatening statements before the shooting. According to police reports, the man approached his ex-girlfriend and the male victim before declaring his intentions.
“The suspect made it clear this was about his relationship with the female victim,” said Metro Nashville Police Department spokesperson Don Aaron. “Witnesses heard him say ‘if I can’t have you, no one can’ before he started shooting.”
The male victim appeared to be an acquaintance or friend of the woman, though police have not confirmed the exact nature of their relationship. Investigators believe he was not the intended target but was killed because he was present during the confrontation.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have identified the suspect and issued a warrant for his arrest on two counts of first-degree murder. The man fled the scene immediately after the shooting and remains at large.
Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing additional witnesses. They believe the suspect may have been monitoring his ex-girlfriend’s activities prior to the attack.
“This appears to be a case of domestic violence that escalated to murder,” Aaron said. “The suspect specifically sought out the victims at this location.”
The shooting marks the latest incident in what officials say is a troubling trend of domestic violence cases in Nashville. Police have responded to more than 2,000 domestic violence calls so far this year.
Community Impact
The business where the shooting occurred remained closed Wednesday as police processed the crime scene. Yellow tape surrounded the building while investigators collected evidence.
Local domestic violence advocates used the incident to highlight resources available to victims of relationship abuse. The Nashville Domestic Violence Hotline provides 24-hour crisis intervention and safety planning services.
Anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts is asked to contact Metro Nashville Police immediately. Officials warn the public not to approach the suspect if spotted, as he should be considered armed and extremely dangerous.
The investigation remains active as police work to locate and apprehend the suspect. Additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of the investigation.
Sources: Law and Crime, Metro Nashville Police Department
