Lebanon, TN – The Lebanon Police Department is actively searching for a suspect following reports of shots fired at the Walmart on South Cumberland Street Saturday night. Authorities responded to the scene just after 10 p.m. on January 4, when security cameras captured the suspect exiting the store shortly after the incident.
Walmart was evacuated, and a police presence was established around 10:45 p.m. According to the police, there were no injuries reported from the shooting. As a precaution, officials advised residents within a one-mile radius of the store to shelter in place while the investigation continued.
The suspect, described as a Black male wearing a black jacket and gray pants, was last seen leaving the scene in a green vehicle. The shooting is believed to have been an isolated incident between two individuals, and authorities have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Despite reassurances from the police, local residents have expressed concern over the growing crime in the area. Elizabeth Brown, a Lebanon resident of 33 years, voiced her worries about the safety of the community. “It used to be, Lebanon was a small town, perfect place to raise your kids, perfect, and now it’s gotten where the crime is getting really bad,” she said.
Brown, who has become increasingly concerned for the safety of her daughters and grandchildren, now carries a Taser for self-defense. Her daughters, she explained, often visit the store with their young children, adding to her growing fears.
The Lebanon Police Department has not released any further details regarding the incident. Anyone with information on the suspect’s whereabouts is urged to contact the department at 615-444-2323.