Authorities have released further details regarding a tragic shooting that took place in Columbia, Tennessee. The incident unfolded on Saturday, May 31st, at approximately 3:07 PM, when law enforcement officers were dispatched to the 3000 block of Somerset Lane. Upon arrival, they found three individuals who had sustained gunshot wounds. Among them was a 46-year-old man named John Bidle, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The alleged shooter, identified as Bryon Dean Childers, reportedly observed Bidle standing outside his residence while he was walking down the street armed with a rifle. According to the arrest affidavit, Childers referred to Bidle as a “demon” and, shortly thereafter, opened fire while shouting phrases such as “demon from hell” and “it was safe now.” Following the initial shooting, Bidle’s wife emerged from their home, only to be violently confronted by Childers. He dragged her across the street, inflicting scrapes on her knees and elbows, and proceeded to choke her, restricting her airflow. In a disturbing escalation, he shoved a vape pen down her throat and struck her in the face, as detailed in the affidavit.
In the midst of this chaos, a neighbor named Stacie Wright, aged 51, came outside to assist. Tragically, Childers then shot Wright multiple times. She was rushed to Vanderbilt Medical Center for emergency surgery but was later pronounced dead. Additionally, a third victim, who was operating an ice cream truck nearby, was shot in the hip. Fortunately, this individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was also transported to Vanderbilt for treatment.
In a desperate attempt to escape, Childers tried to enter the vehicle of an off-duty officer from the Metro Nashville Police Department. During this confrontation, he struck the officer in the face while trying to gain control of the patrol car. The officer then drew his service weapon as Childers attempted to flee the scene. Ultimately, the Columbia Police Department apprehended Childers.
As a result of his actions, Bryon Dean Childers faces multiple charges, including two counts of First-Degree Murder, Attempted First-Degree Murder, two counts of Aggravated Assault Resulting in Death, Carjacking, Possession of a Firearm During a Dangerous Felony, and Simple Assault. His court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, June 18th.