Tennessee University homecoming events disrupted after gunfire; One dead, several others injured

A crowd that had gathered earlier in the day for homecoming events at Tennessee State University began to thin out when gunfire broke out between two groups around 5 p.m., Metro Nashville police spokesman Don Aaron said. Shell casings indicate that there was an exchange of gunfire between the groups on a street near the campus, he said.

Metro Nashville Police Commander Anthony McClain said the shooting did not appear to be directly related to events at Tennessee State University, which included a parade and other celebrations earlier in the day. At the time of the shooting, the football game was taking place in another part of the city.

“It’s unfortunate that a few people ruined it for everyone,” McClain said. “We have to get to a point to stop this violence.”

A police statement on social media said a 24-year-old man had died. The victims included two 12-year-olds and a 14-year-old with non-critical injuries, Aaron said.

Police spokeswoman Brooke Reese said at least some of the wounded appeared to have been involved in the shooting. Police and firefighters who were present during the day’s activities were able to respond quickly to the shooting, authorities said. Witness Jashawna Rucker told WTVF-TV that chaos ensued after people heard the shots and she saw people crying as they ran to safety. “I’m thankful I didn’t lose my life or get shot,” Rucker said.

Rauf Muhammad told The Tennessean that he was selling food in a tent along the road when he heard the shots and fell to the ground.

(with AP inputs)