Tennessee State University issues statement following mass shooting

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Tennessee State University issued a statement following Saturday night’s mass shooting.

This statement went out to their campus community:

“Dear campus community,

We would like to clarify recent media reports regarding two separate incidents that occurred this evening. First, Metro Nashville Police are investigating a shooting that occurred at 26th and Jefferson Streets, near the House of Legends and the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church, several blocks from our campus. Again, the shooting on campus did not occur.

Unfortunately, police have reported one casualty and nine other injuries. Authorities released the following description of the suspects, who remain at large:

Suspect 1: Male, Black, wearing a green top and green pants.

Suspect 2: Male, Black, wearing a black and white top with jeans; possibly in a Ford Fusion.

In a separate incident at Nissan Stadium, Metro Police reported three people suffered injuries after an argument that escalated into a brawl in the parking lot. According to police, the three were injured when a large crowd began to run for safety, resulting in them being trampled. All were taken to local hospitals. This incident was initially reported as a shooting, but Metro Police have confirmed through video surveillance that this was not the case.

The university will provide further information on both incidents as details become available. Please remember the affected families and pray during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

University Public Relations and Communication”

The shooting occurred shortly after 5:30 p.m. after the crowd began to thin following TSU homecoming celebrations, MNPD said.

One person was killed and nine others were injured in the shooting.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell also released a statement about the incident:

“Today hundreds of us marched down historic Jefferson Street for homecoming.

What was once a joyous atmosphere is very different tonight because it is a senseless act of violence committed by people who didn’t care who else might get caught in the crossfire.

Unfortunately, many in our community are familiar with the pain caused by gun violence. It hurts every time. We are grateful for our first responders who quickly provided aid and secured the scene of the accident – and with sadness and prayers for the victims.”

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