A school shooting is one of the most devastating events that can occur, leaving entire communities grappling with grief and heartbreak. The recent tragedy in Nashville, which resulted in the loss of a young life, has left many mourning and searching for answers.
On January 22, 2025, the Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed the identity of a 16-year-old student who lost her life at Antioch High School. The victim, Josselin Corea Escalante, was fatally wounded in the school cafeteria. Two other students were also injured, with one suffering a minor graze that required immediate treatment at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Josselin’s father, German Corea, expressed his profound sorrow, sharing how much he loved his daughter and how unimaginable it was that she would not return home. “It’s not fair,” he said, struggling with the reality of the situation. Josselin was a bright student, a soccer player, and a beloved family member. Her aunt described her as a calm, well-behaved girl who excelled in her studies and cherished her family. The family has called for increased school security measures, though they acknowledge that meaningful change often feels elusive in the wake of such tragedies. Antioch High School honored Josselin with a vigil on the evening of her passing.
The shooter was identified as 17-year-old Solomon Henderson, a fellow student at the school. After firing shots in the cafeteria, he turned the weapon on himself, dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. School resource officers, stationed elsewhere in the building, responded immediately to the sound of gunfire but arrived moments after Henderson had taken his life. Authorities are now investigating Henderson’s online activity and social media presence in collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies to uncover any potential motives. Thus far, no connection between Henderson and his victims has been established. “It may be that they were struck by his random gunfire in the cafeteria,” said a representative from the Metro Nashville Police Department.
Chief John Drake extended condolences on behalf of the Metro Nashville Police Department, pledging support for students, parents, and staff during the healing process. Dr. Adrienne Battle, director of Metro Nashville Public Schools, also offered her sympathies and gratitude to the school staff and emergency responders for their quick actions, which may have prevented further harm. She announced that Antioch High School would remain closed for the remainder of the week to give students and staff time to grieve and process the tragedy.
Dr. Battle expressed her commitment to understanding the causes behind this incident and working to ensure such events do not happen again. She emphasized that schools should remain places of safety, learning, and growth, despite this devastating incident. She promised to provide grief support and resources for students and staff, urging the entire Nashville community to come together in solidarity during this difficult time.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.