NASHVILLE, TN - The city of Nashville is still reeling from a tragic shooting that occurred at a private religious school on Monday. Three children and three adults lost their lives in the attack, leaving the community in shock and mourning. Authorities have since released graphic body camera footage showing the fatal confrontation between police and the shooter.
The incident took place at around 11am local time when emergency services received reports of an active shooter on campus. Police arrived within minutes to find chaos unfolding as children and staff members frantically tried to escape from the building.
According to witnesses, shots were fired shortly after officers entered the building. They eventually located the suspect, who was armed with multiple firearms, in one of the classrooms. A tense standoff ensued as police attempted to negotiate with him.
However, negotiations broke down after several minutes and police were forced to take action. Body camera footage shows officers exchanging gunfire with the suspect before finally taking him into custody.
Sadly, it was too late for some of those caught up in this tragedy. In addition to the six fatalities reported so far, authorities say that several others remain hospitalized with injuries sustained during or as a result of this incident.
The identities of those killed or injured are yet to be released by authorities pending notification of next-of-kin.
This marks yet another instance where gun violence has taken innocent lives in America's schools - renewing debates about gun control laws across various states.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee expressed his condolences over Twitter saying "Maria & I are deeply saddened by today’s senseless act of violence against our neighbors here in Middle Tennessee...We offer our prayers for strength & peace for these families & our thanks to all first responders."
Investigations into what led up to this brutal attack are still underway - while counseling is being offered for students and staff affected by this tragedy.