Domestic disturbance in Davidson County ends tragically
{The following article contains content of a sensitive nature. Discretion is advised.}
Yesterday in Davidson County, what began as a domestic disturbance ended tragically.
The Davidson County Sheriff Deputies responded to a call from a woman at Grape Escape Vineyards located on Bethesda Road to find a couple immersed in an escalating domestic disturbance.
The female victim reported that an active domestic disturbance was taking place on the scene and a male, identified as Neal Thomas (DOB: 3/24/1961). had fired shots inside the residence, while she was still inside. The female victim was able to flee the residence and call 911.
The initial deputies arriving on the scene approached the residence, when they encountered Thomas who emerged from the front door of the residence presented a firearm and fired at deputies. This resulted in multiple deputies returning fire.
Thomas retreated back into the residence and the Davidson County Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) was activated and responded to the scene. The SERT team utilized an armored vehicle to attempt contact with Thomas through a public address system, in an attempt to get Thomas to surrender without further incident.
After hours of failed attempts to contact Thomas the SERT team moved into the residence and found him deceased after hearing gunfire. Investigators determined that Thomas had shot all four of his canines inside the residence and also suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Investigators also determined he had been struck by gunfire in the hand, possibly during the exchange with responding deputies.
Davidson County Deputy Sheriff, Richie Simmons said, “We ran it the best way that we knew how and we tried to get a better outcome than we did. But, still all of our Deputies walked away unharmed and the victim did as well.” .
Grape Escape Vineyards released the following statement, “We kindly request privacy during this time due to a tragic unforeseen incident that occurred on our premises yesterday. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult period.” Thomas was co-owner of the vineyard.
The SBI is currently investigating this case and an unnamed number of deputies have been place on leave pending the outcome of the investigation, which is standard protocol. More information will be shared as it is available.
