NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) is continuing its investigation into the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Uriel Miller, whose death has drawn attention not only for its tragic nature but also for the ongoing search for justice that mirrors another Nashville family’s loss.
Miller, a resident of Rutherford County, was fatally shot while driving on Interstate 40 East on January 12, near the Fesslers Lane exit. Newly-released dashboard camera footage from a tractor-trailer truck captured the moments leading up to his death. Investigators believe the vehicle involved in the shooting is a silver 2015 Honda Odyssey and are urging the public to review the footage for any potential leads.
Miller, known for his passion for music and entrepreneurial spirit, was building a promising future, managing a clothing line and attending school. His tragic death has left his family and friends heartbroken.
Ryan Trent’s family, who lost their son to a similar senseless act of violence in 2016, understands the pain of Miller’s loved ones all too well. Trent, 29, was shot and killed on Ellington Parkway near Briley Parkway, and his family has spent years without answers. Glenn Trent, Ryan’s father, shared his deep connection to the Miller case, saying, “I saw it instantly, and the first thing I thought of was, ‘That is very similar.’”
For nearly eight and a half years, the Trent family has fought for justice in Ryan’s case, with no new developments. Glenn Trent explained how the unresolved grief haunts him daily, noting, “It’s on our mind every day when we’re awake. I even wake up in the middle of the night thinking about it.”
As police continue their efforts in the Miller case, the Trent family has called on anyone with information to come forward, echoing the sentiment that any help can bring solace and possibly a step closer to justice. “If anybody comes forward in any shooting and gives information, it gives that family solace in knowing what happened, who did it, and justice in most cases,” Glenn Trent said. “The big thing is whoever did it is free to live their life. Our son doesn’t have that opportunity.”
In addition to Miller’s case, the family of 37-year-old Christopher Spaunhorst is still seeking justice. Spaunhorst was shot and killed on December 25, 2022, while driving on Interstate 24 near Shelby Avenue. Investigators have not made any arrests in his case either.
While the Trent family remains hopeful that Miller’s family will find the answers they need, they also continue their fight for their own son’s justice. Despite having no video evidence, unlike the newly-released footage in Miller’s case, they believe every tip helps bring them closer to the truth.
Crime Stoppers has offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in Miller’s case, while the Trent family has offered a $20,000 reward for any leads in Ryan’s case. The MNPD urges anyone with information about these unsolved shootings to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-74-CRIME.
