Metro Nashville detectives are investigating after a child was found dead in Antioch on Wednesday night, turning a stretch of Apache Trail into an active crime scene. Officers responded to the 4200 block, taped off the area, and began working the case. Authorities have not released the child's age, identity or cause of death.
Police Tape Off Apache Trail Scene
Responding officers quickly shut down access to the 4200 block of Apache Trail while detectives and Youth Services personnel walked the scene and documented evidence, according to FOX 17. The outlet reported that investigators had not said what triggered the initial call, only that the case remained very much active.
Youth Services Leads Follow-Up
The Metro Nashville Police Department’s Youth Services Division, which the department lists as responsible for handling child deaths, abuse and neglect cases, was among the units on scene, according to the Metro Nashville Police Department. That division typically coordinates with other units and outside agencies on sensitive investigations involving children.
Medical Examiner, Autopsy And Next Steps
Under Tennessee law, sudden child deaths require a detailed investigation at the scene and often an autopsy as part of standard procedure. The state's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner provides guidance and oversight for these pediatric death investigations, meaning the county medical examiner and forensic specialists may be involved as detectives work to determine the cause and manner of death, per Office of the State Chief Medical Examiner.
How To Help
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Metro Nashville Police Department’s Youth Services Division at 615-862-7417, according to the department's public materials. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities say they will release more details as they become available.
