Covenant School Shooting: Hearing to determine if shooter’s ‘manifesto’ will be released
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — It’s a critical day in the fight by some to release the writings of the Covenant school shooter. On Tuesday, a judge is set to hear arguments for and against the release.
What’s set to unfold over the next few days is called a “show-cause hearing,” which means there will be no testimony or witnesses. Rather, each plaintiff will present their respective arguments to the court and the defendant will be able to respond and be cross-examined — all before a judge.
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In this case, Davidson County Chancellor I’Ashea Myles will decide if the writings of Audrey Hale will be made public.
Officers with the Metro Nashville Police Department discovered the writings in the shooter’s home and car after the deadly shooting on March 27, 2023. Three children and three adults were killed in the mass shooting.
According to officials, Hale left behind several journals, a suicide note, and a memoir — all of which reportedly made references to school shootings and firearms courses.
Media outlets, gun rights groups and state Senator Todd Gardenhire requested Hale’s writings and were denied under the Tennessee Public Records Act.
Those for the writings being released say the information could help experts better understand what was in Hale’s mind at the time, and how something like this could be prevented in the future.
The Metro Nashville Police Department argue they don’t have to turn over the documents because there’s a pending criminal investigation.
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Meanwhile, Covenant School parents want to prevent the release of the writings, saying it could be traumatizing to the victims and could inspire future bad actors.
It remains unclear whether the chancellor will issue a ruling at the end of the hearing. The hearing is set to begin at 10 a.m. at the Historic Metro Courthouse in downtown Nashville.
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