NASHVILLE — A 17-year-old boy named Ja’Quan Nolan was killed Saturday night during a shooting that followed an escalating argument between two young women at the Forest Park Apartments complex off Highway 70 South. Metro Nashville Police say the violence broke out around 10:20 p.m., and the sudden turn to gunfire has left the community shaken and investigators scrambling for leads.
According to police, a dispute between the two women began inside or near the apartment grounds. Witnesses say the argument heated up and then, shortly afterward, multiple gunshots rang out. In the chaos, Nolan — who had been visiting friends at the complex — was struck. Sadly, officers say he was declared dead at the scene, never having regained consciousness.
In addition to Nolan’s death, a 24-year-old man suffered a graze wound in the shooting. He was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment. During questioning, he denied any involvement in the shooting and was released by detectives — though authorities later arrested him on an unrelated warrant, a failure-to-appear case, not directly tied to the homicide.
The Metro Nashville Police Department’s Homicide Unit is leading the investigation. They have joined forces with the District Attorney’s Office to review the evidence, statements, and any possible surveillance footage in the area. At this time, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made for the homicide itself.
Police believe the shooting involved more than just the argument’s participants — multiple individuals reportedly fled the scene immediately after the gunfire. Investigators are urging anyone who saw the incident, captured it on video, or heard anything suspicious to come forward. Tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers at (615) 742-7463; callers may remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward for useful information.
This tragedy has raised fresh concerns in the community about violence near residential areas and the safety of young individuals visiting friends or attending social gatherings. Residents near Forest Park Apartments say gunfire in the area has been a problem before, and many now fear more episodes unless active prevention steps are taken. Local leaders say they will push for improved lighting, surveillance, and community policing to help deter such violence.
As of now, the investigation remains open and active. Detectives are following every lead, reviewing forensics, and urging cooperation from those with knowledge. Ja’Quan Nolan’s life was cut short in a moment of conflict, and those who loved him are now left mourning — while the community waits for justice and answers in the darkness of that October night.