NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A shooting incident occurred near a university in Tennessee on Saturday afternoon, resulting in one fatality and nine injuries, as reported by police. The incident took place amidst a gathering for homecoming festivities at Tennessee State University, which was starting to clear out around 5 p.m. The exchange of gunfire unfolded between two groups across a street adjacent to the campus, as noted by Metro Nashville Police spokesperson Don Aaron.

According to Metro Nashville Police Commander Anthony McClain, the shooting did not seem to have any direct connections to the university’s events, which included a parade and various celebrations earlier in the day. At the time of the shooting, a football game was underway in another part of Nashville. “It’s unfortunate that a few folks ruined it for everybody,” McClain remarked, emphasizing the need to confront and reduce violence within the community.

A police statement confirmed that a 24-year-old man was pronounced dead in the aftermath. Among the injured were two 12-year-olds and a 14-year-old, all of whom sustained non-life-threatening wounds, according to Aaron. Police spokesperson Brooke Reese indicated that some of the victims were likely involved in the gunfire exchange.

First responders, including police and firefighters who were already present due to the day’s activities, acted swiftly to assist those affected by the shooting. Fire department representative Kendra Loney reported that some firefighters improvised by using belts as tourniquets to aid the injured.

Witness Jashawna Rucker recounted the panic that erupted after the sound of gunfire, describing a scene filled with distress as people fled for safety. “I am thankful I didn’t lose my life or get shot,” Rucker expressed, reflecting on her relief in the face of the chaos. Rauf Muhammad, who was operating a food stall nearby, shared his experience of diving to the ground upon hearing the shots. “Everybody was having fun, music playing and whatnot. Then all of a sudden, you just hear like you’re off in a war somewhere,” Muhammad stated, illustrating the sudden shift from celebration to fear.