NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A newly released report on Wednesday provided further insights into the perpetrator behind the tragic attack at a private Christian elementary school in Nashville in 2023, which resulted in the death of three children and three adults.
The extensive report, which is close to 50 pages long, illustrates how Audrey Hale’s early interest in mass shootings and shooters evolved into plotting an attack. Over nearly half a decade, Hale conducted meticulous surveillance and research on possible targets while amassing an arsenal of firearms.
Hale’s increasing manipulation was a direct response to the growing concerns of his parents and therapists. The extent of this manipulation was such that Hale even considered murdering his mother to prevent her from thwarting his plans.
Although Hale sometimes used male pronouns and was identified as male by police, the report consistently utilizes female pronouns based on a Tennessee law, which defines “sex” according to anatomical and genetic factors at birth.
**Chronology of Events Verified by Police:**
**2011:**
At 16, Hale became markedly socially withdrawn and struggled to form connections at school, which led to suicidal ideation. Recognizing these changes, Hale’s mother sought assistance from a therapist who would work with Hale for several years. During this period, Hale underwent a psychological evaluation, revealing diagnoses of major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobias, anger-management difficulties, and emotional and social immaturity.
**2017:**
Encouraged by the therapist, Hale began maintaining a journal. It was in these initial entries that Hale started to delve into the histories of mass murderers in America and watch school shooting documentaries. This year, Hale’s dramatic weight loss became a concern for his mother and therapist, leading to a six-week stay in an eating disorder clinic.
**2018-2019:**
The report further describes Hale’s ongoing research into mass treacheries, paralleling his planning for an assault on his former middle school, detailing the weaponry required. In 2019, Hale disclosed both suicidal thoughts and fantasies of violence to his therapist, prompting another psychological review at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The review reaffirmed previous diagnoses, recommending an intensive outpatient regimen. Although Hale completed the eight-week program, planning for the attack resumed shortly after the therapist’s retirement.
**2020:**
By age 25, Hale acquired a rifle and commenced private firearms training, furthering preparations for the intended school attack.
**2021:**
Hale expanded his firearm collection, concealment efforts notwithstanding. His new therapist became aware of his gun ownership in April, objecting due to his depressive and suicidal background. Hale reassured them these issues were past, yet his mother later discovered Hale’s firearm cache and a book on the Columbine shooting, triggering another psychological evaluation. Hale circumvented hospital admission, secretly procured another gun, and sought another therapist.
**2022:**
According to the report, Hale’s paranoia escalated, fearing discovery by his parents or therapist might lead to forced hospitalization and firearm confiscation. This year marked the beginning of Hale’s contemplation of targeting Covenant School.
**2023:**
On March 23, Hale executed the attack on Covenant School. The victims were three nine-year-olds, Evelyn Dieckhaus, Hallie Scruggs, and William Kinney, along with adults Cynthia Peak, 61, Katherine Koonce, 60, and Mike Hill, 61. Police revealed that Hale’s father suspected his child could be involved upon learning of the Covenant shooting.