NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A tragic sequence of events unfolded in downtown Nashville this week, culminating in the fatal police-involved shooting of a homeless man suspected of gunning down a Rescue Mission employee just a day earlier.

On Sunday afternoon, 44-year-old Cedric Wilson, a long-time employee at the Nashville Rescue Mission, was shot multiple times as he exited the facility located on Lafayette Street. The shooting, described by authorities and witnesses as deliberate and targeted, left Wilson in extremely critical condition at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Dispute Over Day Room Leads to Tragedy

According to the Nashville Rescue Mission, the confrontation began earlier that day inside the Mission’s “day room,” a common area that staff needed to clear for cleaning. While most guests complied, 29-year-old Tadarius Hunt, who had been staying at the facility, allegedly refused to leave. Wilson, tasked with ensuring compliance, asked Hunt to exit. After some resistance, Hunt reportedly left—but not without making verbal threats.

According to Mission staff and MNPD investigators, Hunt later lay in wait in the facility’s parking lot. When Wilson completed his shift and exited the building, Hunt opened fire, shooting him 11 times in the chest and legs before fleeing the scene. Wilson was rushed into surgery and, despite the severity of his injuries, was able to speak briefly with detectives on Monday morning.

Manhunt Ends in Fatal Shootout

An intensive manhunt ensued throughout the night, as Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) officers scoured the city for any signs of Hunt. The public was also urged to assist by providing any relevant information on his whereabouts.

On Monday around 11 a.m., Hunt was spotted near Frugal MacDoogal, a well-known liquor store on Division Street. MNPD officers responded quickly and confronted Hunt on the sidewalk as he moved toward the nearby bridge. According to MNPD officials, Hunt drew a firearm and opened fire on the officers, striking Officer Clayton Lewis in the leg. Officers returned fire, critically injuring Hunt in the ensuing shootout on the bridge.

Both Hunt and Officer Lewis were transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Hunt succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Fortunately, the bullet only grazed Officer Lewis’ leg. The nine-year MNPD veteran was treated and is expected to be released from the hospital the same day.

Ongoing Investigations and Reactions

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has been tasked with conducting an independent investigation into the use of deadly force, per state protocol in officer-involved shootings. The MNPD is also conducting an internal review of the incident.

The Nashville Rescue Mission released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the violent act that left their beloved coworker fighting for his life. “Cedric Wilson has been a dedicated part of our team for many years. He is a man of compassion and integrity, and we are devastated by what has happened,” the statement read.

Community on Edge

This incident has sent shockwaves through both the local community and the homeless services network in Nashville. Advocates are calling for deeper conversations around mental health, homelessness, and support systems that may prevent such tragedies.

As Wilson remains in critical condition, community members and colleagues have started prayer circles and support efforts on his behalf. Meanwhile, the city grapples with the violent series of events that claimed one life, endangered others, and raised urgent questions about public safety, mental health support, and community care for vulnerable populations.