A 41-year-old man faces charges in the fatal shooting of a younger man at a Richland Hills Apartment complex last year. Terry Watters Jr., the accused, has been slapped with second-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm, as detailed in a report from the Nashville Metropolitan Police. The incident led to the death of 25-year-old Christopher Rhodes on August 17, 2024.
Bringing new furniture to their apartment, Rhodes and his girlfriend became embroiled in a conflict when Watters reportedly initiated a confrontation. According to police, the altercation stemmed from an ongoing dispute that escalated rapidly. The struggle ensued for control over the gun before Rhodes was shot, whose death was triggered after trying to intervene. After assaulting Rhodes with the weapon, Watters fled the scene, leaving before police could respond to the chaotic scene at 5800 Maudina Avenue.
Further investigation into the shooting revealed that a scuffle broke out between Watters and Rhodes, ultimately leading to the tragic outcome. "Rhodes was shot during a struggle between Rhodes and Watters over control of the gun," was how the Nashville Metropolitan Police described the fatal turning point of the altercation. The incident drew considerable attention, highlighting the dangers of firearms getting into the hands of convicted felons.
In the aftermath, police quickly launched a manhunt for Watters, who reportedly made his escape in a vehicle. Since the incident, prosecutors are preparing for a trial, focusing on the charges leveled against Watters.
