Nashville Police Chief’s son, sought for shooting 2 officers, found dead after chase.
Nashville Police Chief’s Estranged Son Found Dead After Shooting Incident
In a tragic turn of events, the estranged son of Nashville’s police chief, John Drake, has been found dead after a high-speed chase with the police. The 38-year-old suspect, John Drake Jr., was wanted for shooting and injuring two officers in a nearby city.
Expressing his grief, Chief John Drake issued a heartfelt statement, thanking the officers for their efforts in locating his son. He shared, “It was my prayer that no harm would come to him or anyone else. I am heartbroken and saddened by the outcome. I appreciate the condolences and kind words of support as my family and I privately mourn our loss.”
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The younger Drake’s final moments unfolded when he stole a car at gunpoint from a residence southeast of downtown Nashville. After unsuccessfully seeking a ride from a couple, he resorted to brandishing his weapon and demanding the car in their driveway. Police later spotted the stolen vehicle and pursued it until it crashed in the Edgehill area.
Attempting to evade capture, Drake sought refuge in a shed behind a house. As officers closed in on him, a single gunshot rang out. Tragically, Drake was discovered dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
Drake, who was facing two counts of attempted first-degree murder, was the estranged son of Chief John Drake. The chief confirmed his son’s involvement in the shooting and revealed that they had been estranged for some time.
The incident began when Officers Ashely Boleyjack and Gregory Kern were investigating a stolen vehicle outside a Dollar General store in La Vergne. During the confrontation, the suspect drew a handgun and shot the officers. Fortunately, both officers received medical treatment and were released from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Expressing gratitude, La Vergne Police Chief Christopher Moews thanked all the officers involved in the pursuit for their dedication and steadfastness. He also extended his prayers to Chief Drake and his family.
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell also expressed condolences, calling the death of the younger Drake a tragic end. He stated, “Our heart goes out to Chief Drake and his family at this difficult time.”
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The shooting incident occurred on Monday night, when officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle. Upon their arrival, they were met with gunfire, resulting in two officers being shot and injured. The officers were immediately transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to make a full recovery.
Following the shooting, a city-wide manhunt was launched to locate the suspect, later identified as John Drake Jr. The high-speed chase ensued when the suspect was spotted fleeing the scene in a stolen car. The pursuit reached dangerous speeds, posing a threat to both civilians and law enforcement officers involved.
After a brief chase, the suspect’s vehicle collided with another car, causing extensive damage. Upon impact, officers were able to apprehend the suspect, but tragically, he was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause and manner of his death are currently under investigation.
Chief John Drake, who became Nashville’s police chief in 2020, expressed his gratitude towards the officers involved in locating his son. He acknowledged their dedication and commitment to their duty and extended his condolences to the officers who were injured in the line of duty.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement officers and their families when personal and professional lives intersect. It serves as a reminder that police officers are not immune to the consequences of criminal behavior, even within their own families.
Mental health and family support are important factors that need to be addressed within the law enforcement community. The tragedy of Chief John Drake losing his son further underscores the need for resources and assistance available to officers and their families to navigate through difficult personal circumstances.
The Nashville Metropolitan Police Department has offered counseling and support to the officers involved in the incident and their families. The department is also working towards implementing comprehensive programs and initiatives to ensure the mental well-being and emotional support of their personnel.
As the investigation into the shooting and subsequent death of John Drake Jr. continues, the Nashville community mourns the loss and hopes for healing for all those affected. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and their families, emphasizing the need for continued support systems and resources within the law enforcement community.
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