NASHVILLE, TN – A man attempting to steal two cases of beer from a gas station convenience store was shot in the arm Saturday night in a chaotic confrontation that left many questioning the actions of those involved.
The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on June 22 at a Shell gas station located in the 1500 block of Lebanon Pike. Officers from the Hermitage Precinct responded to reports of a shooting and found a 26-year-old man walking down the street with a gunshot wound to his forearm.
When officers attempted to speak with the injured man, he tried to flee but was eventually stopped and taken to a hospital for treatment.
According to Metro police, the shooting unfolded after the 26-year-old man and another individual attempted to steal two cases of beer from the store. A gas station employee followed the men into the parking lot to retrieve the stolen beer. It was at this point that the suspects allegedly assaulted the employee, prompting a customer to intervene.
The customer, who was armed with a gun, reportedly tried to use the firearm as a blunt object to hit the 26-year-old man. The gun discharged, hitting the man in the arm. The customer then left the scene.
Police later found the second suspect, a 33-year-old man, walking down the street. He was arrested on outstanding warrants for criminal trespassing.
While no innocent bystanders were harmed, the situation raised significant concerns about the actions taken. Using a firearm as a blunt object, rather than to stop an imminent threat, is highly inadvisable and can lead to dangerous outcomes, such as a negligent discharge. Thankfully, the shot hit the suspect and not an innocent bystander.
It remains to be seen whether any charges will be filed against the customer who discharged the firearm. The incident underscores the importance of understanding the proper and responsible use of firearms, especially in tense situations.
The investigation is ongoing.
