Crime
34-year-old Ashton Bohannon killed after shooting in Cookeville shopping center parking lot
Cookeville, Tenn. — Authorities say an attempted robbery may have led to a fatal shooting in Cookeville on Friday night, after a victim reportedly acted in self-defense and fatally shot his alleged attacker.
According to the Cookeville Police Department, officers responded just before 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 11, to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of a shopping center located in the 700 block of South Jefferson Avenue, near an axe-throwing bar and a Walmart store.
Deputies from the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 34-year-old Ashton Bohannon suffering from gunshot wounds.
He was transported to Cookeville Regional Medical Center in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His next of kin have been notified.
Following a preliminary investigation, Cookeville Police Chief Scott Winfrey and Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris confirmed that a 22-year-old man, who remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators, reported that Bohannon allegedly attempted to rob him at gunpoint.
According to the 22-year-old, Bohannon confronted him in the parking lot and displayed a firearm during what is believed to have been a robbery attempt.
The younger man, who was legally carrying his own firearm, drew his weapon and fired in what he described as an act of self-defense.
At this time, no charges have been filed against the 22-year-old, as the incident is being investigated under Tennessee’s self-defense laws.
Authorities emphasized that the individual has been fully cooperative, and that witness testimony and possible security footage from nearby businesses are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
“This appears to be a case where an individual was forced to defend himself during a violent encounter,” said Sheriff Farris. “However, our detectives are still actively piecing together exactly what transpired.”
The Cookeville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division continues to lead the investigation.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is encouraged to contact them at 931-520-5322.
Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
TIPP CITY, Ohio — Caleb Flynn has been formally charged in connection with the death of his wife, 37-year-old Ashley Flynn, following an investigation into what was initially reported as a home invasion early Monday morning.
According to Tipp City Police Chief Adkins, Caleb Flynn faces one count of homicide, two counts of felonious assault, and two counts of tampering with evidence.
The charges stem from the fatal shooting that occurred at the couple’s residence on Cunningham Court.
Officers were dispatched at approximately 2:30 a.m. after receiving a report of a burglary in progress.
Upon arrival, they discovered Ashley Flynn inside the home, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities stated that Flynn’s husband and the couple’s two children were inside the home at the time of the shooting but were not physically injured.
Investigators noted signs of forced entry and believe two gunshots were fired inside the residence. As of Monday evening, police had not publicly identified a suspect.
By Tuesday, Chief Adkins confirmed that the department had contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.
“It’s pretty much taken the manpower of several of our investigators just reviewing the videos that have been coming in,” Adkins told, referring to surveillance footage collected from the neighborhood and surrounding areas.
Subsequent investigative findings led to the arrest and charging of Caleb Flynn.
Ashley Flynn was a well-known educator and coach in the community.
Tipp City Schools confirmed that she served as the volleyball coach at Tippecanoe Middle School, worked as a substitute teacher, and had previously been employed as a full-time teacher within the district.
In a statement posted to social media, the district described her as someone known for “her beautiful smile, warmth, kindness, and the positive impact” she had on students and colleagues.
“Our thoughts are with all who are grieving during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Flynn was also a member of Christian Life Center in Dayton. Pastor Jordan Hansen shared condolences on behalf of the congregation, describing her as “a beloved member of our church, devoted servant of Jesus, and wife, mom, daughter … and so many other roles she fulfilled with grace, devotion, and unconditional love.”
The case remains under active investigation. Authorities have not released additional details regarding a possible motive. Caleb Flynn is currently being held as the judicial process moves forward.
Further updates are expected as court proceedings begin and additional information becomes available.