News Summary
Two men, Andray Stevens and Antonio Witherspoon, have been indicted on charges of first-degree murder and aggravated robbery in connection with the murder of Darrius Bergeron in downtown Nashville. The indictment comes after police investigations revealed that Bergeron was shot shortly after approaching a white SUV. The incident has raised community concerns regarding gun violence. In response, Monica McLendon, Bergeron’s mother, is actively participating in advocacy efforts through ‘Mothers Over Murder,’ aiming to empower families affected by violence.
Nashville
Two men have been indicted in connection with the murder of Darrius Bergeron, a 29-year-old man who was shot to death near downtown Nashville on May 17, 2024. The indictment was announced by authorities on July 7, 2025, and involves charges of first-degree murder and especially aggravated robbery against 38-year-old Andray Stevens and 33-year-old Antonio Witherspoon.
At the time of the incident, police reports indicated that Bergeron had approached the passenger side of a white SUV shortly before shots were fired, leading to his tragic death. After thorough investigations, both suspects were already in custody when the indictments were issued, and they are currently being held on a $500,000 bond.
The news of the indictment brought a mix of feelings to those affected, especially to Monica McLendon, the mother of Darrius Bergeron. She has been grappling with profound grief since her son’s murder, recalling the devastating moment when law enforcement representatives visited her home to deliver the news. McLendon spoke about finding solace in her faith, family, and community support during this trying time.
On July 27, 2025, McLendon publicly spoke for the first time at a meeting held by Mothers Over Murder, a support organization for grieving parents that is part of the Nashville Peacemakers founded by Clemmie Greenlee. This event marked a significant step in her healing process as she sought to empower herself and others who have lost loved ones to violence.
Community Support and Advocacy
Mothers Over Murder aims to empower families of victims, providing them a platform to have their voices heard in ongoing discussions surrounding gun violence in Nashville and beyond. Greenlee, who founded the organization, seeks to offer support and community to those dealing with similar tragedies. McLendon’s involvement signifies not just her personal journey through grief, but also a commitment to advocating against the violence that has impacted her family and so many others.
Details Surrounding the Murder
The circumstances of Darrius Bergeron’s murder remain heart-wrenching and have sparked conversations within the community about safety and the ongoing issues related to gun violence. While officials have not released the motive behind the shooting, the incident has raised concerns not only in Nashville but across the nation as cities face increasing rates of violence.
In conclusion, the indictment of Andray Stevens and Antonio Witherspoon serves as a pivotal moment for the families affected by the tragedy of gun violence. As the legal process unfolds, Monica McLendon continues to share her story, contributing to a broader dialogue about healing and the need for change in gun-related policies. The memorialization of her son and acknowledgment of the pain caused by such loss highlights the importance of community support and the pressing need for a collective response to violence in society.
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Additional Resources
- WKRN: Nashville Mother Speaks After Suspects Indicted
- WKRN: Nashville Mother’s Video
- Tennessean: Two Indicted in Nashville Fatal Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
Author: HERE Nashville
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