A deadly shooting unfolded Wednesday morning at Antioch High School in Nashville, Tennessee, leaving one student dead and another injured before the 17-year-old shooter turned the gun on himself, according to authorities.
The incident occurred in the school’s cafeteria at 11:09 a.m. local time, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department spokesman Don Aaron shared during a press briefing. Officers were called to the scene at 11:11 a.m., and a SWAT team swiftly cleared the building, ensuring there was no ongoing threat.
“There is no danger at the school,” Aaron confirmed.
Victims and Injuries
The two primary victims, both female students, were transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, one succumbed to her injuries, while the other sustained a graze wound to her arm and was receiving treatment. Additionally, a male student was treated for a facial injury unrelated to gunfire.
The 17-year-old male shooter, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, died by suicide at the scene. Investigators are still working to determine a motive for the attack.
Police and School Response
The swift response by law enforcement highlighted their readiness for such emergencies. A photo posted on social media by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department captured the moments officers arrived on the scene.
Parents were urged to avoid coming to the school, with officials directing them instead to a hospital where they could reunite with their children. Nashville’s school district also provided a dedicated phone line for families seeking information, cautioning callers to remain on hold despite long wait times due to high call volumes.
To facilitate reunifications, buses were arranged to transport students to a designated center. Aerial footage from CBS affiliate WTVF-TV revealed a crowd of concerned individuals gathered outside the hospital.
A Community in Shock
Antioch High School, a public institution with over 2,100 enrolled students, is situated in the Antioch neighborhood, approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Nashville. The tragedy has left the community reeling, with school and city officials working to provide support for affected families and students.
This heartbreaking event adds to the growing concern over school safety and gun violence. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the Antioch High School community during this difficult time.
