Crime
18-Year-Old Charged in Fatal Columbia Shooting That Left Another Teen Dead
An 18-year-old man has been arrested and is facing multiple felony charges in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon at a residence in Columbia, Tennessee.
According to the Columbia Police Department, officers were dispatched to a home in the 1000 block of Whatley Street around 5:30 p.m. on April 15 following reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located 18-year-old Jayden Braden unresponsive inside the home, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical personnel transported Braden to Maury Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following an investigation and the development of leads, police identified the suspected shooter as 18-year-old Alijah Wolflin.
He was located at another residence in Columbia and taken into custody without incident.
Wolflin now faces several charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony
- Reckless endangerment
- Aggravated assault resulting in death
Authorities noted that Braden and Wolflin were known to one another and described them as “associates.” Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public in connection with this incident.
In response to the tragedy, Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder issued a statement expressing condolences to the families and the wider community affected by the shooting:
“As a community, we come together in the good times and in difficult times. That is what defines us. That’s who we are.
Liz and I are heartbroken by recent events in Columbia, including the loss of life of one who had a lot of life left to live; and for all of those who are impacted by this loss and tragic event — particularly the high school-aged population who knew the situation.”
No additional details have been released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Authorities have identified the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputy who was fatally shot Monday afternoon while responding to a domestic violence call in Rancho Cucamonga as Deputy Andrew Nuñez, a six-year veteran of the department.
Deputy Nuñez was tragically killed after being struck in the head by gunfire during a confrontation with an armed suspect that led to a high-speed pursuit and crash along the 210 Freeway.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the incident began at approximately 12:37 p.m., when deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive in Rancho Cucamonga following reports of a Hispanic male armed with a firearm and threatening a female victim.
When deputies arrived on the scene around 12:42 p.m., the suspect opened fire without warning, striking Deputy Nuñez.
Additional units immediately rendered aid and requested emergency medical assistance.
Deputy Nuñez was airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the area on a motorcycle, prompting a large-scale pursuit involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
The chase traveled eastbound along the 210 Freeway, reaching high speeds through several communities.
At approximately 1:35 p.m., the pursuit ended when the suspect crashed near Campus Avenue in the city of Upland.
He was taken into custody at the scene and transported to a nearby hospital with injuries sustained in the crash.
Outside Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, dozens of deputies, officers, and family members gathered in somber unity as news spread of Deputy Nuñez’s passing.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus was among those present, describing the event as a heartbreaking and devastating loss for the department and the community.
“Deputy Nuñez was a dedicated public servant who risked his life to protect others,” Sheriff Dicus said. “He exemplified courage, professionalism, and compassion — and his loss will be deeply felt throughout our law enforcement family.”
Deputy Andrew Nuñez had served honorably with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department for six years, earning the respect of colleagues and community members alike.
He is remembered as a devoted deputy, colleague, and friend who consistently demonstrated commitment to his duty and the residents he served.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Homicide Detail, with assistance from the California Highway Patrol and FBI, is leading the investigation into the shooting and pursuit.
Authorities have not yet released the name of the suspect pending formal charges.
The department announced that further updates, including funeral arrangements and memorial details, will be shared at a later time.
“Please keep Deputy Nuñez’s family, loved ones, and fellow deputies in your thoughts and prayers during this time of profound loss,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.