Man Brain Dead, Three Others Wounded, by Celebratory Gunfire in Tennessee

In Winchester, Tennessee, John Cobb, age 61, was struck in the head by a bullet that police believe was fired into the air during Fourth of July celebrations. He is brain dead and on life support at the hospital. Cobb was walking with friends when he collapsed. The bullet wound on the top of his head was later discovered by first responders. Police think the bullet is “possibly from a rifle,” and are asking anyone with information to contact them as they continue to investigate.

And three people in different parts of downtown Nashville, Tennessee, were injured by what police believe was celebratory gunfire. A 60-year-old man injured his foot; a 58-year-old woman was sitting on steps when she felt a wound to her breast; and a 26-year-old woman was getting into a ride share when something struck her face, leaving a mark on her nose and a swollen upper lip. They were all taken to the hospital for treatment. 

“The police department strongly cautions against celebratory gunfire, which can be inherently dangerous when projectiles, even if fired into the air, fall toward the ground in populated areas,” police said.

Sources:

Kendrick Wright, “Man Critically Injured by Falling Bullet During July 4th Celebrations in Winchester,”newschannel5.com (July 5, 2025).

Pat O’Donnell, “Man Brain Dead After Being Hit by Stray Bullet in Winchester, Police Say,” wkrn.com (July 7, 2025).

Danica Sauter, “3 Injured From Celebratory Gunfire in Nashville, Police Say,” wsmv.com (July 5, 2025).