Athens, TN – A 24-year-old Tennessee man is facing a first-degree murder charge after allegedly killing a bar owner following a dispute at a local establishment. The suspect, William Charles Thomas Sullivan, claimed the deadly shooting was “accidental” after being banned for life from the bar due to an earlier knife incident.
Fatal Shooting at Double CC Bar and Grill
Authorities reported that the incident occurred on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Double CC Bar and Grill, located on the 1000 block of Highway 30 West. Responding units from the McMinn County Sheriff’s Office, Athens Police Department, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation arrived after multiple reports of shots fired at the bar.
According to law enforcement, Sullivan had been asked to leave the bar after allegedly making threats with a knife, though no 911 calls were made regarding the knife incident at the time.
“Sometime later, the suspect fired shots at other bar patrons in the parking lot,” Sheriff Guy said. “When confronted by the bar owner, Randy Croft, the suspect fatally shot Mr. Croft before taking his truck and fleeing the scene.”
Suspect’s Alleged Actions and Claims
Sullivan reportedly claimed that after being dropped home by his girlfriend, he returned to the bar armed with a 9 mm handgun. He said he fell into a large ditch near the bar, causing several shots to fire accidentally, possibly hitting vehicles or the building.
Sullivan also alleged that a beer bottle thrown at him prompted additional accidental shots. He later admitted to firing at Croft from inside a vehicle, claiming it was in self-defense, although authorities did not recover a firearm from Croft.
After exhausting his handgun, Sullivan allegedly reloaded from a box of shells in his girlfriend’s car and continued shooting. He then took Croft’s keys and gun, fleeing in the victim’s vehicle while reportedly panicking during a short car chase. Sullivan is believed to have discarded Croft’s firearm during the pursuit.
Law Enforcement Response and Arrest
Sullivan was apprehended in a neighboring county after a brief pursuit. Authorities confirmed that additional charges beyond first-degree murder are likely, pending the ongoing investigation.
He is currently being held without bond at the McMinn County Justice Center and is scheduled for arraignment on Oct. 2.
Community and Safety Concerns
The shooting has raised concerns among local residents about gun violence and bar safety in the area. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any threats or suspicious activity immediately.
Background on the Bar Incident
Double CC Bar and Grill has a history of handling disturbances on-site, and this incident highlights the risks of escalating conflicts involving weapons. Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter.
Key Takeaways
- Victim: Randy Croft, bar owner, fatally shot.
- Suspect: William Charles Thomas Sullivan, 24, charged with first-degree murder.
- Incident Date: Friday, Sept. 19, 2025.
- Location: Double CC Bar and Grill, Highway 30 West, Athens, TN.
- Additional Charges: Likely, pending investigation.
- Court Appearance: Arraignment scheduled for Oct. 2.
Authorities continue to urge residents to avoid confrontations, report threats immediately, and stay informed about updates in the ongoing investigation.
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