Gunman identified as a 17-year-old student, who later took his own life, leaves the Antioch community in shock
Nashville [Tennessee], January 23: A tragic shooting at Antioch High School in Nashville on Wednesday morning left one female student dead and another student injured, according to Metro Nashville Police, CNN reported. The incident occurred in the school cafeteria at 11:09 a.m. (local time).
The suspect, identified as 17-year-old student Solomon Henderson, entered the cafeteria armed with a pistol and fired multiple shots, police revealed. After the attack, Henderson fatally shot himself.
Victims and Investigation
- A male student sustained a graze wound to the arm and was treated and released, while another male student suffered a facial injury unrelated to gunfire. Their names have not been disclosed.
- The building was cleared by a SWAT team, according to Metro Nashville Police spokesman Don Aaron, who confirmed the shooting had ceased before officers arrived.
School and Community Response
Antioch High School, which serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12, announced counselling services for affected families.
“Antioch families, MNPS social workers, and guidance counsellors will be available to support you and your student,” the Metro Nashville Public Schools district stated.
Law Enforcement’s Role
Two student resource officers (SROs) were present on campus but were not in the immediate vicinity of the cafeteria. By the time they arrived at the scene, the shooting had ended.
Numerous agencies, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, responded to the incident.
Gun Violence Advocacy and Political Response
Tennessee State Representative Justin Jones, a vocal advocate for stricter gun control laws, condemned the tragedy.
“No child should face the omnipresent threat of gun violence,” Jones stated. “Today’s fear in Antioch and Nashville highlights the human cost of political inaction and prioritizing firearm profits over the safety of students.”
Jones has been a prominent figure in advocating gun control reforms, particularly following a 2023 shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville that claimed six lives.
Tags: Antioch High School shooting, Nashville gun violence, Tennessee school tragedy, student safety, gun control debate, Metro Nashville police response#NashvilleShooting #AntiochHighSchool #GunViolence #StudentSafety #GunControlNow