On Sunday around 12:25 a.m., gunfire erupted outside a party on Jefferson Street in Nashville, leaving four teenagers—ages 14, 15, 16 and 18—wounded. Metro Police say at least some of the shots came from a vehicle parked nearby.
Teen victim’s condition
Among the injured is Kadence White, a 16‑year‑old high‑school junior. She was struck in the back of the head, and doctors have determined the bullet cannot be safely removed without causing further damage. The projectile remains lodged in her brain, and she remains in critical condition, fighting for each breath.
Family’s plea
Kadence’s mother, Stella Short, describes her daughter as more than a victim. “She loves being with her friends, talking to her friends. She loves spending time with us, her family, her little sister. My daughter adores her. That is literally her favorite person,” Short said. Short added that a bystander performed CPR at the scene, which she believes saved Kadence’s life.
Short is now asking for two things: continued prayers for her daughter’s recovery and justice for the shooter. “I would like the person who did this to come forward,” she said.
Pastoral perspective
Pastor Sam Kirk, who has known the White family for years, said the violence reflects a larger problem in the community. “Every parent should feel that they can let their child go out for a night of fun and expect their child to come home safely,” Kirk said. He recalled a tragic death decades ago that inspired a scholarship in the victim’s name, noting that similar safety concerns have persisted on the same streets.
Police investigation
Metro Police detectives are still pursuing leads. They are asking anyone with information to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615‑742‑7463.
Community response
The incident has sparked an outpouring of prayers and support from local churches, neighborhood groups and concerned residents. Many are calling for stronger safety measures at public gatherings and for the city to address the root causes of gun violence.
As Kadence continues her fight for life, her family leans on faith, community, and the hope that justice will be served.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
