A 69-year-old Nashville man is facing a stack of felony charges after police say he fired a shot at a woman who rejected his sexual advances outside a Madison apartment tower.
Officers say they found Jonathan Bennett at the front doors of Chippington Towers II on Saturday, after the victim and her sister reported that he had approached them, groped one of the women, then pointed a handgun in their direction. The woman was not hit, but officers reported finding what looked like a bullet impact near the building. Bennett is being held on multiple felony counts with a combined $255,000 bond.
What police allege
According to an arrest affidavit reported by WSMV, the victim told officers Bennett made verbal sexual advances and “proceeded to grind on her,” prompting her to run toward the entrance of the complex.
The affidavit says a bystander shouted “Girl, watch out” just before a loud bang. The victim’s sister told officers she believed Bennett was trying to kill them both.
Booking and records
Davidson County Sheriff's Office booking logs list a Jonathan Bennett, born April 4, 1957, admitted on May 23 and housed at the Downtown Detention Center, details that match the arrest report.
The shooting was reported outside Chippington Towers II on Coreland Drive. Public records list the tower at 1310 Coreland Drive in Madison, according to Metro Public Health.
Charges and next steps
Authorities say Bennett was booked on two counts of attempted criminal homicide, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and one count of sexual battery, and is being held on a total bond of $255,000, according to WSMV.
The affidavit states Bennett was advised of his rights and admitted firing a shot but refused to explain how the gun was fired or what his intent was. Officers reported finding what appeared to be an impact mark near the complex.
How this fits local trends
Violence in and around apartment complexes has become a recurring concern in Nashville, with recent cases keeping the issue in the headlines. A recent North Nashville apartment shooting arrest underscored how neighbors say these incidents leave lasting unease in their communities.
Metro police say the investigation into the Madison shooting is ongoing, and detectives are encouraging anyone with information to contact law enforcement. Bennett’s case will move through the Davidson County jail and court system as prosecutors review the arrest affidavit.
