Tragedy and Justice in Nashville: The Shooting of Cedric Wilson and the Death of Tadarius Hunt
The Nashville community is grappling with the aftermath of a violent incident that unfolded over two days, resulting in the critical injury of a Nashville Rescue Mission employee and the subsequent death of the suspect following a police shootout.
The Shooting of Cedric Wilson
On Sunday afternoon, May 11, 2025, Cedric Wilson, a 44-year-old staff member at the Nashville Rescue Mission, was shot multiple times as he was leaving work at the organization’s Lafayette Street location. According to the Nashville Rescue Mission, the incident began when a guest, later identified as 29-year-old Tadarius Hunt, refused to leave the “day room” that needed cleaning. After a brief confrontation, Hunt left but threatened Wilson before departing. Hunt waited in the parking lot with a firearm until Wilson finished his shift, then ambushed him, shooting him 11 times in the chest and legs.
Wilson underwent surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and remains in extremely critical condition. Despite his injuries, he was able to speak with detectives, providing crucial information about the incident.
The Pursuit and Shootout
Following the shooting, the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) launched an extensive search for Hunt. On Monday morning, May 12, 2025, Hunt was spotted at Frugal MacDoogal, a large market and liquor store located at 701 Division Street. When officers approached him on the sidewalk near the bridge on Division Street, Hunt pulled out a firearm and opened fire, striking one officer in the leg. The officers returned fire, critically wounding Hunt. He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.
The injured officer, later identified as Clayton Lewis, discovered his leg was merely grazed and was treated at Vanderbilt Medical. The nine-year veteran of MNPD is expected to be discharged on Monday.
Community Reactions and Ongoing Investigation
The Nashville community has expressed shock and sorrow over the events. The Nashville Rescue Mission, which has been serving the community for over 70 years, continues its mission to provide hope and support to those in need . The organization has not released a public statement regarding the incident, but its staff and volunteers are deeply affected by the violence.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is conducting an independent review of the circumstances surrounding the exchange of gunfire between MNPD officers and Hunt on Division Street, as per protocol.
Final Thoughts
This tragic sequence of events underscores the challenges faced by organizations like the Nashville Rescue Mission in their efforts to serve vulnerable populations. While the community mourns the violence and prays for Cedric Wilson’s recovery, there is also a collective call for continued support and compassion for those experiencing homelessness and hardship.
Note: The information provided is based on available reports as of May 12, 2025. Details may change as the investigation progresses.