Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 6-9-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for June 9, 2025

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.

We start with local news…

Baby Shot in Spring Hill (WilliamsonScene)

A one-year-old child was shot early Friday morning in Spring Hill in what police described as an exchange of gunfire between at least two people.

The unidentified child was sleeping in a home in the 3000 block of Shandor Street when a bullet was fired into the home around 12:55 a.m. The child was transported to a local hospital in “stable condition.”

“Investigators do not believe the child was the intended target of the shooting,” according to a Spring Hill Police Department news release.

Police said that an unidentified person was on Shandor Street when a car, described as a sedan, stopped in the road next to the person, and the occupants got out of the car.

“For reasons that are unknown, the occupants of the vehicle and the person on the street exchanged gunfire,” the news release states, adding that “up to 15 rounds” were fired.

Police have not identified anyone involved in the shooting and are asking residents of the Harvest Pointe subdivision to review any home security camera footage between 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m.

SHPD asks that anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects to contact Detective Jonathan Tiller at jtiller@springhilltn.org, or submit an anonymous tip online here.

Arsonist Arrested (MauryCountySource)

Detectives from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, along with WCSO Case Agent Sgt. Travis Donnell, have been investigating a series of arsons that occurred in recent weeks. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from any of the fires; however, each property was completely destroyed and considered a total loss.

During the investigation, it was discovered that similar arson incidents had occurred across multiple jurisdictions during the same time period, including Spring Hill, TN; Davidson County, TN; and parts of Kentucky. Due to the multi-jurisdictional nature of the case, agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have been assisting the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies involved. Cases of this complexity require significant expertise and strong interagency collaboration.

As a result of the investigation, Charlie Aguayo of Antioch was arrested and is currently being held at the Wilson County Jail. He faces three counts of arson and one count of criminal trespassing, with bond set at $80,000.00. Detectives have also identified juvenile co-conspirators, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Community At Loss Over Shooting (MSM)

While officials continue to piece together what happened on May 31 on Somerset Lane in Columbia and why it happened, the families of the victims and the community is reeling from the impact of the shooting that changed everything in a second.

“We are heartbroken.”

That is the message on the Boys and Girls Club of South Central Tennesse’s Facebook page last week along with photos of Stacie Wright, who was shot while standing in the front door of her home on Somerset Lane and later died in surgery.

“Stacie was a bright light in our community,” the post goes on to state. “She gave her time freely and her heart fully, always showing up with warmth, joy and an unwavering commitment to the mission. Whether she was helping behind the scenes at fundraising events or guiding kids as they built birdhouses in Spring Hill, Stacie’s presence made everything better. She truly embodied the spirit of service, and her impact on our youth was immeasurable.

“We are devastated by this loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and colleagues at Ultium Cells during this incredibly difficult time. Stacie touched so many lives, and her kindness will never be forgotten.

“She will be missed more than words can say.”

John Bidle was also killed in the May 31 shooting on Somerset Lane. He has been described as a man who loved his family and died protecting them.

Their community and neighbors have rallied around the Bidles, including his wife Amy who was also attacked.

A Go Fund Me account has been started for the Bidle family.

While in the Columbia city limits, Somerset Lane is situated near Battle Creek Middle School, which offered support to shooting victims last week with counselors, support staff and resources available to anyone who may need them. Anyone still in need of counseling or resources are urged to reach out to Battle Creek Middle School counselors Shelley Jansen, sjansen@mauryk12.org and/or Jessie Alexander, jalexander@mauryk12.org.

“Maury County Public Schools offers its deepest sympathy to the families impacted by this senseless act of violence,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent, Lisa Ventura. “Now is the time to come together, and love and support one another. It is my hope that anyone that needs support will take advantage of our staff at Battle Creek Middle School.”

As these families and the other victims of the shooting that shattered their lives start to pick up the pieces, the details of the events that day were revealed in Columbia Police Department arrest warrant filings last week.

Columbia Gets Grant (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is proud to announce it has been awarded a Waste Reduction Grant for a total project value of $425,200.00 from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC),

Division of Solid Waste Management (DSWM), Materials Management Program (MMP). This significant funding includes a 30% match from the City of Columbia, and will facilitate the purchase of a new recycling truck, enhancing the city's waste management and sustainability initiatives.

This investment underscores Columbia's commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and efficient public services. The acquisition of this new recycling truck is a pivotal step in increasing the city's capacity to handle larger recycling volumes and directly supports Columbia's broader vision for a more sustainable community.

"This grant is a testament to our ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability and the well-being of our community," stated Mayor Chaz Molder. "A new recycling truck will significantly improve our capacity to serve residents and reinforce Columbia's position as a leader in responsible waste management. We are incredibly grateful to TDEC for their partnership and support in achieving our green goals."

The City of Columbia has consistently prioritized initiatives that contribute to a cleaner environment, understanding that effective waste reduction and recycling programs are fundamental to this effort. This grant will allow the Public Works Department to operate with greater efficiency and reach more households, making recycling more accessible and convenient for all citizens.

City Manager Tony Massey highlighted the importance of the award. “This grant award allows the City to expand and enhance our solid waste recycling efforts to our citizenry. Less solid waste going to the landfill and instead being repurposed is good for the environment, saves landfill space, and is fiscally responsible.”

Public Works Director Jeff DeWire emphasized the direct impact on daily operations and resident services. “This new recycling truck will be an excellent addition to our fleet, significantly enhancing our ability to serve the community. It will allow for more efficient collection routes, reduced operational costs, and ultimately, a more reliable and expanded recycling service for every resident.”

The grant contract is expected to be finalized swiftly, with a tentative contract delivery date set for June 30, 2025. The City of Columbia looks forward to integrating the new recycling truck into its fleet and continuing its efforts to promote a cleaner, greener future for all its residents.

Size-Up Maury (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance for a dynamic Lunch & Learn session and discover how to leverage SizeUp Maury—a powerful, interactive business intelligence tool designed to help small and medium-sized businesses grow and compete smarter.

Whether you're launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, SizeUp Maury provides free access to market research, industry data, competitive analysis, and more—all customized for Maury County businesses.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Benchmark your business against local and national competitors

• Identify new customers and suppliers using geographic and demographic insights

• Optimize your marketing by targeting ideal customers

• Make data-driven decisions using real-time market intelligence

Event Details:

Date: July 16 

Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Location: Attend in person or virtually from anywhere

Fees:

• Virtual Attendance: $15

• In-Person Attendance: $25 (includes lunch)

Don't miss this opportunity to explore how SizeUp Maury can help your business thrive in today's competitive landscape!

Fast Stop Opens (WKOM Audio 1:20)

On Thursday, a new Fast Stop convenience store opened on Trotwood Avenue in Columbia. Front Porch Radio’s Delk Kennedy attended the ribbon cutting and spoke to Seth Blank, CEO of Fast Stop Markets…

MRMC Pharm Residency Gets Reaccredited (MSM)

Maury Regional Medical Center’s Post-Graduate Year One (PGY1) Pharmacy Residency Program has been awarded reaccreditation by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), recognizing the program’s continued commitment to providing exceptional training for future pharmacists.

The PGY1 Pharmacy Residency merges inpatient and outpatient care with academic training. The majority of the residents’ clinical rotations are completed at Maury Regional Medical Center, a 255-bed regional facility serving southern Middle Tennessee.

Accreditation by ASHP is a prestigious achievement, with rigorous standards designed to ensure programs meet the highest benchmarks of quality. Erika Hasford, PharmD, BCPS, pharmacy residency director, and Jennifer Allen, PharmD, BCPS, area clinical manager for CompleteRx, led the reaccreditation process over the past year.

“We are honored to help train new pharmacists at MRMC and appreciate the outstanding work and dedication of Dr. Hasford, Dr. Allen and everyone who contributed to this reaccreditation,” CEO Martin Chaney, MD, said. “Their efforts help ensure that our pharmacy residents receive first-rate educational opportunities, and our community receives exceptional care from a well-trained health care team, furthering our vision to be the trusted choice for health and wellness in our region.”

Residents in the program become experts in managing a variety of disease states and caring for diverse populations, from premature infants to geriatric patients. In addition to clinical training, residents provide educational programs, complete a research project and participate in a teaching and learning certificate program through Lipscomb University. Each resident presents research at local, regional or national meetings and has the opportunity to engage in didactic and clinical teaching for pharmacy students.

“ASHP accreditation is the gold standard for pharmacy residency training,” Hasford said. “The practice standards are rigorous and reflect national quality initiatives and recommendations for contemporary and future pharmacy practice. Meeting these standards reflects the high-quality pharmaceutical care our patients receive at Maury Regional each day. This is an outstanding accomplishment for our pharmacy team.”

The program requires successful completion of clinical rotations in cardiology, critical care, infectious disease, informatics, internal medicine, practice management and staffing, with additional elective rotations available in ambulatory care, emergency medicine, neurology and psychiatry. These rotations are precepted by Maury Regional Medical Center’s team of pharmacists and specialty medical staff. Residents also contribute through weekend staffing, evening shifts and holiday rotations.

Appointment to the Maury Regional Medical Center’s Pharmacy Residency Program is contingent upon graduation from an accredited college of pharmacy and eligibility for licensure in Tennessee.

For more information, visit MauryRegional.com/PharmacyResidency.

Leadership Maury (Press Release)

Leadership Maury is a countywide personal development program designed to motivate participants to develop and enhance the quality of their leadership in addressing pertinent community needs. The program is open to people who live, work, or make a significant contribution to Maury County through volunteer work. Class members meet with local decision-makers in several sectors of the community, such as business, government, health, public services and agriculture. Participants will visit places all over the county to hear speakers and participate in activities to help them learn about Maury County and how to positively impact where they live, learn, work and play. 

Applications are available now!

Visit www.mauryalliance.com to apply.

Deadline to apply is July 15, 2025.

The purpose of the Leadership Maury program is TO:

• Help leaders prepare for volunteer responsibility in the community.

• Provide these leaders with a practical and sophisticated understanding of major problems and opportunities facing Maury County.

• Facilitate access between emerging leaders and the current leadership of the community.

• Improve the communications network among leaders with diverse backgrounds and interests.

• Create a setting for persons of demonstrated commitment to the community to meet and exchange ideas.

• Stimulate increased community participation and commitment.

Spring Hill: The Event (Press Release)

The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce is excited to invite the community to Experience Spring Hill, The Event—a free, family-friendly celebration presented by TriStar Spring Hill ER. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Battle Creek High School, where local innovation, culture, and community come together under one roof.

Experience Spring Hill, The Event is a showcase of local innovation, where neighbors and newcomers unite to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant culture that define our community.

“This event is all about connection—connecting families to fun, businesses to customers, and neighbors to each other,” said Rebecca Melton, former Executive Director of the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident, you'll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the people and businesses that make our community thrive.”

Event Highlights Include:

• 150+ Local Vendors spotlighting the businesses and organizations that power Spring Hill’s growth

• Touch-a-Truck Zone with emergency vehicles, construction equipment, and more

• Live Performances from local dance, fitness, and martial arts groups

• Family Activities like face painting, balloon art, games, and special character appearances

• Food Court featuring a variety of local flavors

• Giveaways & Prizes throughout the day

• City Showcase & Tennessee Travels highlighting local services and travel ideas

Who Should Attend?

• Families looking for a fun and meaningful day out

• Local residents eager to support and explore their community

• Newcomers hoping to feel more at home in Spring Hill

• Admission is Free – RSVP Today!

Visit www.experiencespringhill.com/experience-spring-hill-event to learn more and RSVP.

And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…

Mrs. Alice Pogue Campbell, 96, a longtime resident of Spring Hill, died Saturday at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center. A graveside service will be conducted Tuesday at 10:00 AM at Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Monday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

And now, news from around the state…

Zebra Captured (Tennessean)

An elusive zebra who’s evaded capture in Middle Tennessee for more than a week has finally been captured.

The fugitive zebra — who had been nicknamed “Ed” by the social media users tracking his escapades — has been on the loose since May 31. Eight days later, the zebra was finally captured in a field in Christiana, south of Murfreesboro in Rutherford County.

Earlier in the weekend, law enforcement officials were tracking the zebra with a drone. Those efforts paid off on June 8 — News Channel 5 reports that the zebra was hit with a tranquilizer dart, then strapped in and airlifted via helicopter to be returned to captivity and seen by a veterinarian.

It’s been a busy week since the zebra escaped from the home of a Rutherford County couple the night of May 31. Ed’s runaway journey has taken him everywhere from neighborhood streets to a parkway near Interstate 24, about 35 miles south of downtown Nashville.

That spawned plenty of memes, jokes and amusement overall as Tennesseans pored over videos of the zebra plodding through suburban cul-de-sacs and galloping along country highways. Now, there’s one more rare sight to add to the list — of the zebra soaring through the air, tethered to the helicopter, with just its head poking out of the bag used to execute the airlift.

Mark Kruckenberg lives in the Christiana subdivision where the zebra has been repeatedly spotted throughout the past week. Kruckenberg told The Tennessean he saw the airlift unfold in real time earlier in the morning on June 8.

"Me and my neighbor were outside and he ran across the field — and there was a helicopter chasing him," Kruckenberg told The Tennessean.

That chase was playing out in the field behind their homes. Kruckenberg described the pursuers attempting to shoot the zebra with a tranquilizer dart, then seeing a hook hang down to grab the animal.

Before that moment, Kruckenberg said there was a heavy law enforcement presence in the area — both in the neighborhood and along the nearby highway — to keep the zebra contained.

Kruckenberg said the neighborhood has not been short on entertainment this week, as neighbors have been able to follow the zebra's journey through a "party line" of cameras owned by subdivision residents. But though this saga's drawn to a close, Kruckenberg did offer a prediction for the next unusual animal that may find itself wandering through the streets of Christiana.

“(It'll) probably be a giraffe next,” Kruckenberg said.

Tullahoma Plane Crash (Tennessean)

Officials are working the scene of a plane crash about an hour and 20 minutes southeast of Nashville, which reportedly left several passengers injured.

Troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol were on the ground at the scene of the crash — Old Shelbyville Road in Tullahoma — by 1:19 p.m. Sunday, according to a social media post from the agency.

According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, initial reports suggested that 16 to 20 people were on board the plane — and some of them were airlifted to nearby hospitals following the crash.

Lyle Russell, a spokesperson with the city, confirmed for The Tennessean that there were 20 passengers on the plane, including the crew. Of that group, three were sent to receive medial treatment via helicopter and a fourth passenger with "more serious injuries" was transported by ground, all of them to local hospitals.

According to Russell's statement, the plane involved was a skydiving plane, which departed from Tullahoma Municipal Airport at approximately 12:30 p.m.

Besides the injured passengers, the crash didn't cause any damage to ground or airport facilities, nor were any additional injuries reported from the ground.

Russell's statement notes that the scene remains under investigation.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Country legend George Jones was honored on June 3 with a statue unveiling on the historic grounds of the Ryman Auditorium. The detailed bronze likeness was added to the permanent outdoor exhibition.

Jones’s statue joins the likenesses of icons Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Little Jimmy Dickens, and Bill Monroe. Jones’s wife, Nancy, and daughter Susan attended the unveiling, along with country music star Jamey Johnson, who honored Jones during the ceremony.

“The Ryman was one of George’s favorite places to play music,” said Nancy. “He truly revered it as the ‘Mother Church’ and loved the acoustics. To have his legacy live on here permanently, and to see all the people who joined us today and continue to embrace him and his music, means so much to our family.”

Jones was a Grand Ole Opry member since 1956; Jones graced the Ryman stage across multiple eras of his life and career.