NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Family members of the victims from a tragic school shooting in Nashville last year have taken action against a state senator in Tennessee, claiming that his actions are self-serving. Senator Todd Gardenhire has been accused of pursuing a lawsuit to obtain the shooter’s documents while simultaneously proposing legislation that would prevent third parties, like the victims’ families, from intervening in public records lawsuits.
Last year, Gardenhire, along with others, requested access to journals and materials collected by the Metro Nashville Police during their investigation into the shooting. Despite the police’s plan to release the documents after the investigation is closed, Gardenhire and his co-plaintiffs sued for their release, arguing that there is no ongoing investigation since the shooter is deceased and no one is facing prosecution. However, the case has faced delays due to a dispute over who can participate in the lawsuit.
Covenant parents, the Covenant School, and the Covenant Presbyterian Church all attempted to intervene in the case to prevent the release of potentially sensitive information that could jeopardize the safety of the school building. The parents expressed concerns that the documents could further traumatize their children and potentially incite more violence.
A hearing on the records case is set to begin soon, but Gardenhire’s role in the lawsuit has raised ethical questions. An ethics complaint accuses Gardenhire of abusing his position as a State Senator to pass legislation that would eliminate opposition parties without disclosing his involvement in the Covenant records lawsuit.
Despite his efforts to push the bill through the State and Local Government Committee, some have criticized the proposed legislation. An email from a victim’s rights group urged House members to oppose the bill, stating that it would further diminish the rights of victims compared to criminals.
As the controversy surrounding the senator’s actions continues to unfold, the families of the victims remain vigilant in seeking justice for their loved ones. Gardenhire, however, has chosen not to comment on the matter through a spokesperson, leaving the public to question his motives and actions in this contentious situation.