COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE — Community Stunned After Fatal Triple Shooting Leaves Two Dead, One Injured; Local Businessman Byron Childers in Custody

A peaceful Saturday afternoon turned into a scene of tragedy and disbelief in a quiet Columbia neighborhood when gunfire erupted, leaving two people dead and another seriously injured. Authorities have arrested Byron Childers, a respected figure in the local fishing industry, in connection with the incident. The shocking events have left the community reeling and authorities scrambling to piece together the motive behind the violence.

Deadly Shooting Rocks Columbia Neighborhood

The shooting occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in a residential area just outside the downtown district. According to the Columbia Police Department, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and arrived to find three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

Two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The third, a male in his 30s, was rushed to a nearby trauma center and remains in serious condition. Police have not yet publicly identified the victims as they work to notify family members.

Detectives say the victims and the suspect were known to one another, and that this was not a random act of violence.

Suspect Identified as Local Businessman

The alleged gunman, Byron Childers, 52, was taken into custody at the scene without incident. Childers is a longtime Columbia resident and a recognizable face in the regional fishing and outdoors community, known for his involvement in bass fishing tournaments and as a supplier of specialized angling gear.

Authorities confirmed Childers is being charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He is being held at the Maury County Jail without bond pending his initial court appearance.

“This was a tragic event that has deeply impacted our city,” Columbia Police Chief Michael Thompson said during a Saturday evening press conference. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims as we work to ensure justice is served swiftly and thoroughly.”

Investigation and Possible Motive

While the investigation remains ongoing, early reports suggest the shooting may have stemmed from a domestic or personal dispute. Witnesses reported hearing a heated argument moments before the gunfire began. Investigators are examining surveillance footage from neighboring homes and interviewing those who knew the individuals involved.

Authorities have not confirmed whether mental health, substance use, or financial stressors may have played a role in the tragedy, but noted that Childers has no significant prior criminal history.

Community Response and Mourning

The quiet streets of Columbia, a town known for its strong sense of community and Southern hospitality, have been shaken by the events. Neighbors left flowers near the scene, and local churches are planning vigils to remember the lives lost.

“This isn’t something that happens here,” said longtime resident Angela Rowe. “We know each other. We trust each other. To lose people like this—it just breaks your heart.”

Counseling services have been made available through local faith groups and city services for anyone affected by the trauma of the shooting.

Legal Proceedings

Childers is expected to appear in Maury County General Sessions Court early next week. Prosecutors have stated they are considering seeking life without parole or even capital charges, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

The district attorney’s office urged the public not to spread rumors or speculation as the case moves forward, emphasizing that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Call for Witnesses and Information

Police are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area around the time of the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Maury County Crime Stoppers or directly to the Columbia Police Department.