Teen girl killed, 4 others injured in shooting before going to prom

BROWNSVILLE, Tenn. (WMC/WBBJ/Gray News) - Officials say a teen girl was killed and four others were injured after a shooting near a public park in Tennessee Friday night.

Brownsville officers responded to Webb Banks Park on May 8 after a reported call for a disturbance.

The teens were reportedly gathered at the park location shortly before a prom event at Haywood High School when the shooting happened.

Police say five people with gunshot wounds were taken to the hospital. One victim, a teen girl, later died from her injuries.

Haywood County Schools Superintendent Amie Marsh identified the teen as Saturah Hayes.

Marsh says Hayes was “a hardworking student with a positive attitude. She was full of potential and promise with hopes and plans for the future that will now remain unrealized.”

“The senseless tragedy that occurred last night leaves a hole in our hearts and will forever change the lives of all the families touched by this unspeakable event. We extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Saturah Hayes as they navigate this loss and try to work through this time of tremendous sorrow,” Marsh continued in a statement.

Police and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation agents are still working to determine what led up to this shooting. At this time, there is no word on potential suspects or a possible motive.

Haywood High School ended its prom event early following the shooting and classes are cancelled for Haywood County Schools on Monday, May 11 to give students, families, faculty and staff time to grieve.

Brownsville Mayor William D. Rawls offered condolences on Saturday morning.

“Last night’s tragedy was senseless and heartbreaking. What was supposed to be a memorable and joyful night for the Class of 2026 was taken away by reckless gun violence,” Rawls said. “No family, student, or member of our community should ever have to experience this kind of pain during a time that should be filled with celebration and hope.”

The TBI is asking that any witnesses who may have photos or video, or information regarding the shooting to contact the agency at 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463).