Tennessee Man Charged With First-Degree Murder as Shooting at Church Leaves One Dead, Seven Injured

By Heather Clark - Posted at Christian News Network:

ANTIOCH, Tenn. — A man who opened fire on a Tennessee church on Sunday, killing one and injuring seven others, has now been charged with first-degree murder.

Emanuel Kidega Samson, 25, reportedly was wearing a mask and holding two pistols when he arrived at Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch shortly after the end of the morning service.

He first came in contact with member Melanie Smith, 39, as she was walking to her car, and shot her to death. Samson then proceeded to enter the church where he “began indiscriminately shooting” at those inside, according to police.

Among those struck by gunfire were Joey Spann, 60, who pastors the church, as well as his wife, Peggy, 65. Spann also serves as a Bible teacher at Nashville Christian School. He and his wife are listed in stable condition.

Read more here.


See also:

• Nashville church shooting 'a terrible tragedy' (Baptist Press)

• Prayer vigils held after church shooting (Baptist Press)