WINCHESTER, TN — A holiday meant to celebrate freedom and family turned into a heartbreaking tragedy after 61-year-old John Cobb of Springfield, Tennessee, was fatally struck by a stray bullet in what police are now officially treating as a homicide investigation.
The fatal incident unfolded during the July 4th celebrations near Twin Creeks Marina Drive in Winchester, a popular spot for families and community gatherings. According to authorities, Cobb was walking with family members up a boat ramp near River Watch Way between approximately 9:10 p.m. and 9:25 p.m., when he suddenly collapsed. Those with him initially believed he had tripped and suffered a head injury. However, after being rushed to the hospital, medical professionals discovered a bullet wound near the top of his head.
Despite efforts to save his life, Cobb succumbed to his injuries. He had been listed as an organ donor, and his final act will be to give the gift of life to others. His death has devastated his family, friends, and the wider community — a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by reckless gunfire, even during festive occasions.
A Joyous Celebration Turned Deadly
Winchester Police confirm that Cobb was not targeted, and investigators strongly believe he was killed by a stray bullet fired into the air as part of July 4th celebrations. This chilling outcome serves as a grim example of what law enforcement and gun safety advocates have warned about for years — what goes up must come down. A bullet discharged into the sky may lose some of its velocity, but it can still descend with lethal force, particularly if it strikes a vital area such as the head.
This type of celebratory gunfire, while not uncommon during holidays like Independence Day, is both senseless and irresponsible. Despite Tennessee not having specific laws that prohibit firing a weapon into the air, it may be prosecuted under reckless endangerment if it places others in harm’s way — as it tragically did in this case. Some states, such as Arizona, have gone further by enacting legislation that makes celebratory gunfire a felony, spurred by similar deadly outcomes.
A Call for Justice
Authorities are now working to track down the individual responsible. But identifying the shooter — or shooters — can be a daunting task. Police say more than one person may have been discharging weapons in celebration that night, which complicates efforts to match a bullet to a specific firearm.
Still, detectives emphasize that there are avenues of investigation. Ballistics testing can link a recovered bullet to a particular weapon, and eyewitness reports could provide vital leads. In this light, community cooperation is essential. Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen or heard rifle fire in or around Winchester between 9:10 p.m. and 9:25 p.m. on July 4th to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Ryan Fuller at the Winchester Police Department at 931-967-3840. Those wishing to remain anonymous can also call Crimestoppers at 931-962-INFO (4636).
A Community Mourns
John Cobb’s death has sparked a wave of sadness and frustration throughout Tennessee. By all accounts, Cobb was a loving family man who had simply been enjoying a summer evening with loved ones. That a moment so simple — a walk up a boat ramp — could end in such senseless loss has left the community reeling.
This case stands as a powerful warning: celebratory gunfire is not harmless. It is not a tradition — it is a potential act of lethal recklessness.
In a matter of seconds, a single thoughtless decision changed everything for a family and a community. A man is dead. A family is grieving. And a police department is searching for answers.
Final Thoughts
As this investigation continues, let us not lose sight of the larger message: Guns are not fireworks. They are deadly weapons, and their careless use, even in the name of celebration, can lead to irreversible consequences.
The loss of John Cobb is an unspeakable tragedy, made worse by the fact that it was entirely preventable. May his memory stand as a call for greater responsibility, awareness, and accountability.
Please share this message widely. Someone knows something — and your information could make the difference in securing justice for the Cobb family.
Rest in peace, John Cobb.