Good morning, this is Nashville Local Pulse for Friday, May 23, 2025.
Nashville is waking up to somber news as death row inmate Oscar Smith was executed by lethal injection yesterday. Smith, convicted of the 1989 murders of his estranged wife, becomes the first person executed in Tennessee since 2020.
In East Nashville, police are investigating a fatal stabbing at an apartment complex with a murder warrant now issued. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department reports that a majority of guns reported stolen continue to be taken from vehicles, according to data released yesterday.
Community concerns are growing following last week's ICE operation that resulted in 196 arrests. Less than half of those detained had prior criminal convictions, sparking outrage among community advocates. The effects are being felt in Nashville classrooms where teachers report students are struggling with the aftermath.
On a brighter note, Franklin just unveiled a new carousel, fulfilling an artist's 30-year dream. And a free naloxone vending machine in Nashville has dispensed over 2,200 doses in just five weeks, potentially saving numerous lives.
Looking ahead to Memorial Day weekend, we're expecting stormy conditions across Middle Tennessee. Despite weather concerns, numerous events are scheduled including Eric Church's concert tonight and Musicians Corner offering free live music. Monday brings pool parties at Virgin Hotels, family-friendly cookouts at East Nashville Beer Works, and the annual Memorial Day Dash 5K celebrating its 25th year.
Sports fans should note that Nashville SC will face Toronto FC in Western Conference action. The team currently sits third in the standings with a 7-4-3 record. Unfortunately for AC/DC fans, last night's concert was postponed due to weather and has been rescheduled.
In transportation news, a luxury coach service connecting Nashville to Knoxville will launch next month, offering a new travel option between the cities.
The YMCA of Middle Tennessee just celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for this important community institution.
For those traveling east this weekend, be aware that SR 353 Bridge over the Nolichucky River remains closed due to storm damage, though it's scheduled to reopen today.
The Nashville Humane Association received support from an unusual source - an eight-hour Edgar Allan Poe reading fundraiser.
This has been Nashville Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
