12-Year-Old Damarion Morehead Remembered as Joyful Football Lover After Fatal Downtown Nashville Shooting; Suspect Arrested

A Nashville community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 12-year-old Damarion Morehead, whose life was cut short after a shooting during an altercation in downtown Nashville on the evening of June 21, 2026.

According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, officers responded at approximately 7:30 p.m. to reports of gunfire near the intersection of Representative John Lewis Way and ᴅᴇᴀᴅerick Street, adjacent to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

When first responders arrived, they found Damarion suffering from a gunsH๏τ wound to the head. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ despite emergency medical efforts.

Investigators say the shooting occurred during a confrontation involving several individuals in a public courtyard. Witnesses told police that approximately six or seven people had gathered, reportedly over a dispute involving a female.

According to police, the confrontation escalated into a physical fight involving 24-year-old Devin Orr, who was allegedly struck and kicked by members of the group.

Authorities allege that Orr then pulled a handgun from his waistband and fired as people began to scatter. During the gunfire, Damarion was struck.

Police later stated that Orr admitted to hiding the firearm inside a city sewer following the shooting. Investigators subsequently recovered the weapon as part of the ongoing investigation.

On June 22, 2026, officers arrested Orr at a residence on Fisk Street. He was booked into the Davidson County Jail on a charge of criminal homicide. The case remains under investigation, and authorities continue reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and physical evidence to determine the full sequence of events.

As investigators work to establish exactly what happened, Damarion’s loved ones are remembering the vibrant young boy they lost.

Family members describe him as cheerful, energetic, and full of life. He loved football, enjoyed music, and treasured spending time with friends and family.

His football coach, Kolt Peavey, said Damarion truly came alive on the field, where his enthusiasm, determination, and positive atтιтude inspired teammates and coaches alike.

Those closest to him say his smile could brighten any room, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

To help cover funeral and memorial expenses, Damarion’s family has established a GoFundMe, while community members continue offering prayers and support during this difficult time.

🕊️ As Nashville mourns the loss of another young life, Damarion Morehead is remembered not for the violence that ended his future, but for the joy, energy, and love he shared with those around him. May he rest in peace. ❤️