News Summary
A drug-related armed robbery attempt at a liquor store in Nashville resulted in the death of 42-year-old Brandon Watson and serious injuries to 44-year-old Antione Ellis. The incident escalated when an altercation led to gunfire. Authorities are pursuing Ellis on multiple charges and investigating the circumstances surrounding the event. Community concerns about rising drug-related violence and public safety continue to grow in Nashville.
Nashville – A drug-related armed robbery attempt at a liquor store in Nashville’s Priest Lake area ended tragically early Saturday morning, July 12, 2025, resulting in the death of one man and serious injuries to another. The incident occurred shortly after 4 a.m. in the parking lot of a liquor store located in the 2600 block of Murfreesboro Pike.
The deceased victim has been identified as 42-year-old Brandon Watson, who was discovered dead in the parking lot following the incident. His accomplice, identified as 44-year-old Antione Ellis, suffered a neck injury during the altercation and self-transported to TriStar Southern Hills Medical Center. Later, Ellis was moved to TriStar Skyline Medical Center for further medical treatment.
Authorities have issued arrest warrants for Ellis, charging him with aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, and felony gun possession. The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) plans to apprehend Ellis following his release from the hospital as they continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident.
Details of the Incident
According to preliminary reports, both Watson and Ellis arrived at the liquor store in a Jeep, backing it into a parking space. Shortly after their arrival, Ellis exited the passenger side of the vehicle and walked towards a more secluded area, while Watson emerged holding an apparent long gun.
A Dodge Charger then arrived and parked next to the Jeep. Watson reportedly interacted with the driver of the Charger before Ellis previously emerged from the Jeep, armed with the long gun. The situation escalated as Ellis allegedly pointed the firearm into the interior of the Charger while Watson attempted to rob the driver by reaching into the vehicle.
In a turn of events, the driver of the Charger broke free from Watson’s attempt and shot at both Watson and Ellis. Following the gunfire, Watson and Ellis attempted to flee but were both struck during the exchange. After being shot, Ellis made attempts to load Watson into their Jeep but was unsuccessful. Instead, Ellis drove himself to the hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Ongoing Investigation
The Metro Nashville Police Department is actively conducting an investigation into the incident and working to track down the driver of the Charger involved in the shooting. At this time, no additional information regarding the investigation has been released, and authorities are seeking any further witnesses or evidence related to the events that transpired early Saturday morning.
Community Reaction and Background
Police have not disclosed specific details regarding prior criminal records of the individuals involved, but Nashville has faced ongoing challenges with drug-related violence in recent years. This incident underscores the ongoing struggles within various neighborhoods regarding crime and public safety. It also raises questions about the rising concerns of armed robbery attempts linked to drug operations, contributing to local law enforcement’s challenge in maintaining community safety.
As the police investigation unfolds, residents are reminded to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and prioritize safety in their neighborhoods. Authorities encourage anyone with further information about the incident or the individuals involved to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
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Additional Resources
- WSMV: 1 dead, 1 injured after attempted drug-related armed robbery in Antioch
- WSMV: 2 charged with murder after robbery-led shooting in Nashville
- Fox 17: One person transported after Nashville shooting on Fern Avenue
- Tennessean: Nashville police: Teen killed in two Madison shootings
- News Channel 5: MNPD suspect in robbery attempt in East Nashville
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- Google Search: Armed robbery Nashville
- Google Scholar: Drug related violence Nashville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robbery
- Google News: Nashville shooting
Author: HERE Nashville
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