Crime
Metro Nashville Police Respond to Large Disturbance at Opry Mills Mall, No Evidence of shooting
Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) and Nashville Fire Department (NFD) are actively investigating an incident at Opry Mills Mall following reports of a large altercation that prompted a mass evacuation of the shopping center.
The incident occurred when a fight reportedly broke out inside the mall, causing panic among shoppers and leading to a rushed exodus from the premises.
Responding officers arrived swiftly at the scene to secure the area and assess the situation.
Contrary to circulating rumors, MNPD has confirmed that, at this time, there is no evidence of any gunfire associated with the incident.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation to determine the cause and identify those involved.
As of now, there have been no reports of injuries related to the incident.
In response to the situation, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has temporarily closed both the northbound and southbound exits for Opry Mills (Exit 11 NB and SB) to facilitate the ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement and emergency personnel remain on-site to ensure public safety. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.