Investigation underway into mass shooting near TSU during homecoming, one dead

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — There was a shooting near Tennessee State University at the start of the Homecoming football game.

A heavy Metro Nashville police presence responded to the 2600 block of Jefferson Street for a reported shooting just after 5 p.m. Saturday. Of the ten victims of the incident, a 24-year-old man died, police said.

Three juveniles (ages 12, 14 and 14) are being treated at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital in Vanderbilt for non-life-threatening injuries, police confirm. They also said one of the victims was believed to have been involved in the shooting.

In total, according to police, five victims were transported by ambulance, while five victims arrived at area hospitals in private vehicles. Some of the victims were reportedly bystanders.

Police believe the incident involved two parties shooting at each other. They recovered a firearm at the crime scene.

TSU's homecoming events continued today. Kickoff for their football game against Eastern Illinois University at Nissan Stadium was 5 p.m. Their parade, attended by Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell, took place this morning.

“Today, hundreds of us marched down historic Jefferson Street for homecoming,” said Mayor O’Connell. “What was a joyous atmosphere is very different tonight because this is a senseless act of violence committed by people who didn't care who else might get caught in the crossfire.”

TSU Interim President Ronald Johnson sent a message Oct. 9 saying Homecoming was “a call to action.”

“Each of us – students, alumni and supporters – plays a critical role in ensuring that Tennessee State University continues to rise and prosper,” Johnson said. “Together we can sustain a sustainable TSU that will continue to improve and transform the lives of future generations.”

According to police, TSU says there are two possible suspects.

The university also reported a second incident at Nissan Stadium in which three people were injured during a fight and taken to the hospital after being trampled as a large crowd began to run for safety.

Stay tuned to FOX 17 News as this breaking news develops.