John Bidle, Stacie Wright Obituary, Death – A tragic shooting incident in Maury County has claimed the lives of two individuals and left another injured, with police arresting a suspect now facing serious charges.
The Columbia Police Department responded quickly to reports of gunfire in the typically quiet neighborhood on Somerset Lane. Around 3 p.m. on Friday, May 31, dispatchers received emergency calls reporting the sounds of shots fired. Officers arrived on the scene just seven minutes later, at approximately 3:07 p.m., to discover a violent scene involving three gunshot victims.
Upon arrival, police located 46-year-old John Bidle, who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. Two other individuals, including 51-year-old Stacie Wright and a third, unnamed person, were found injured and transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Unfortunately, Wright succumbed to her injuries later that evening while undergoing emergency surgery. The third victim, according to police, survived and is being treated for injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
Authorities have identified a suspect in the case—a 46-year-old male—who is now in custody. While Columbia Police have not released his name, they confirmed that he has been formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder. Officials have not explained why the suspect’s identity has been withheld at this time, though they have indicated that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
A statement from the Columbia Police Department noted that the shooting remains under intense investigation. Investigators are still in the process of collecting and reviewing evidence from the crime scene, as well as conducting interviews with potential witnesses. Police have also indicated that the possibility of additional charges is strong, pending the outcome of their findings.
“Investigators are still processing the scene, conducting interviews, and combing through information. Other charges are likely at the conclusion of this investigation,” said a CPD spokesperson in a written statement issued shortly after the incident.
Details regarding what led to the shooting have not yet been made public. Police have not speculated on a motive, and it remains unclear how the suspect knew the victims or what prompted the violent encounter. The shooting happened in a residential area, suggesting the potential for multiple witnesses, though police have not commented on any specific accounts yet.
The Columbia Police Department is working in conjunction with local prosecutors to ensure the appropriate charges are brought against the suspect as more information becomes available. They have also emphasized their commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation to seek justice for the victims and provide clarity to their families and the broader community.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Somerset Lane neighborhood and the surrounding Columbia area. Residents expressed a mixture of sadness and disbelief, describing the community as peaceful and tight-knit. Many were left stunned by the violence that unfolded in broad daylight and so close to home.
Local officials and community leaders have offered condolences to the families of John Bidle and Stacie Wright, as well as support for the third victim and others affected by the incident. Mental health resources and counseling services are being made available to those in the neighborhood who may be struggling in the aftermath of the shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist with the investigation. Witnesses, neighbors, or anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area around the time of the shooting are encouraged to contact the Columbia Police Department.
As of now, the suspect remains in custody as investigators continue to build their case. No information has been released regarding court dates or legal proceedings, but law enforcement expects to provide additional updates in the coming days.
In the meantime, the Columbia Police Department has vowed transparency and continued communication with the public as they work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this deadly event. The loss of two lives has left a lasting impact on the community, and many are hoping that answers—and justice—will soon follow.