A Tennessee community is mourning the loss of a 12-year-old boy who died after a shooting during a street altercation that investigators say began as a dispute involving several people before escalating into gunfire.

According to police, the confrontation stemmed from an argument reportedly involving a girl. During the incident, authorities allege that a 24-year-old man pulled out a handgun and fired as the situation became increasingly chaotic.

The young victim was struck by gunfire and transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Investigators said the suspect was taken into custody following the shooting and has been charged with criminal homicide. Authorities also reported recovering a firearm that they believe was concealed after the incident.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including the events that caused the confrontation to escalate. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the case moves through the judicial process.

The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, with family members, friends, and residents mourning the loss of a child whose life was cut short. Authorities continue to gather evidence as they work to determine the full sequence of events surrounding the fatal encounter.