Dickson, Tennessee – A teenage boy is facing a first-degree murder charge after police say a meeting with his recently broken-up girlfriend at a Kroger grocery store ended in a deadly shooting Tuesday night in Dickson County.
According to the Dickson Police Department, Hunter Jackson, 18, allegedly met the 17-year-old victim in the parking lot of a Kroger store around 8 p.m. before driving away together in his vehicle. Authorities say the two had recently ended their relationship, and events escalated shortly after leaving the store.
What Police Say Happened
In a press release, police stated that the victim attempted to exit Jackson’s vehicle while it was stopped at a traffic light. During that moment, she was allegedly shot.
“Jackson and the victim were in a relationship that recently ended,” the Dickson Police Department said. “The victim apparently attempted to exit Jackson’s vehicle at a traffic light when she was shot and fell out of the vehicle.”
The shooting occurred near the intersection of Highway 70 East and Henslee Drive, just steps away from the Kroger shopping plaza where the pair had initially met.
Emergency Response and Discovery
Shortly after the shooting, authorities received a call reporting a reckless driver involved in an accident near the intersection. When officers arrived, they discovered the teenage girl suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the roadway.
She was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment but later died from her injuries, police confirmed.
The Kroger store involved is connected to a busy shopping plaza, with Henslee Drive running directly in front of the parking lot, making the area heavily trafficked during evening hours.
Arrest and Weapon Recovery
Police say Jackson fled the scene after the shooting. He was later located and arrested at a residence in White Bluff, a town west of Dickson.
Authorities also confirmed that the handgun believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered during the investigation.
According to police officials, Jackson has been cooperating with investigators, though details of his statements have not been released publicly.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Jackson has been formally charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held on a $3 million bond at the Dickson County Jail.
Court records show that Jackson is scheduled to appear in court on January 20, 2026.
Police noted that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues, but officials have not yet specified what those charges could include.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Dickson County community, particularly because of the ages of those involved and the public location where the meeting began.
Investigators are continuing to review surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to piece together the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Authorities have not released the victim’s name due to her age.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the case remains active and urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
A Broader Safety Reminder
This case highlights the dangers that can arise during emotionally charged situations, particularly involving young people and firearms. Police stress the importance of conflict resolution, safe decision-making, and responsible gun ownership to prevent tragedies like this from occurring.
As the legal process unfolds, investigators say they will continue working to ensure accountability and clarity for the victim’s family and the wider community.
If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship-related conflict or feels unsafe, local authorities and support organizations encourage reaching out for help before situations escalate.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to community safety in the comments below.
