A deadly encounter on South 4th Street is now under investigation as a self-defense case after a man was killed during an alleged attempted robbery. According to reports from the Nashville Police Department, the incident occurred Friday night inside an apartment where a robbery turned fatal.
Deshawn Baker, 47, claimed he was pistol-whipped by Dijon Simon, 33, after he invited Simon and David Montez Mitchell, 35, into his apartment. In the aftermath of the attack, Baker and Simon reportedly fought for control of the handgun, leading to multiple shots being fired. Mitchell, who was struck by the gunfire, drew his weapon but is not believed to have used it before succumbing to his injuries.
Mitchell was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries. Mario Sowell, 47, who was also present in the apartment, sustained a gunshot wound and is in stable condition at the same hospital. Officers responding to the scene found Simon in a nearby apartment with a gunshot wound as well.
Investigators recovered two handguns from the scene, including one reported stolen in 2021. Following the shooting, Baker contacted the authorities to provide his account of the events. He was interviewed at MNPD Headquarters and subsequently released after consultation with the District Attorney's Office, according to information released by the Nashville Police.
The police continue to probe the details of the case, with findings to be reviewed by the District Attorney's Office once the investigation concludes.
