Dalton Eatherly, a 28-year-old livestreamer known online as “Chud the Builder,” has been charged with attempted murder following a shooting outside a Tennessee courthouse on Wednesday. The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. Outside the Montgomery County Courthouse in Clarksville, according to District Attorney General Robert J. Nash of the 19th Judicial District.
Courthouse Confrontation and Gunfire
The shooting stemmed from a confrontation between Eatherly and an “unknown male,” which District Attorney General Nash stated escalated into gunfire. Both individuals sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.
Reports citing Nash indicate that Eatherly was the person who opened fire and appeared to have shot himself in the arm. Law enforcement officers secured the scene and locked down the courthouse while taking one person into custody.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that both individuals were transported to hospitals and are currently in stable condition. Authorities have stated that the incident is under investigation and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Criminal Charges and Legal Status
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has charged Eatherly with attempted murder, employing a firearm during a dangerous felony, Aggravated Assault, and Reckless Endangerment with a Deadly Weapon.
Eatherly is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail. He is pending an arraignment, at which time his bond will be set.
“It’s unfortunate that incidents like this are happening in our community. This kind of violence won’t be tolerated,” Sheriff Fuson of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office stated in a press release.
Pattern of Disruptive Behavior
Eatherly is described as a controversial online personality who records “rage-bait” content, frequently using racial slurs and challenging others to fight.
This event follows a series of legal issues in Nashville. Eatherly was arrested Sunday after allegedly refusing to pay a $371.55 bill at Bob’s Steak & Chop House after being asked to stop livestreaming. A probable cause affidavit alleges he became disruptive and made racial statements when confronted.
He was charged with disorderly conduct and theft of services in that incident. On the following day, he was detained on outstanding warrants and subsequently charged with resisting arrest after he allegedly pulled his arm away while officers attempted to handcuff him.
Potential Next Steps
Eatherly may face a complex legal trajectory as he navigates multiple jurisdictions. He is due back in court regarding the Nashville charges on July 17.
Depending on the outcome of the arraignment in Montgomery County, he could remain in custody or be released on bond. The ongoing investigation into the courthouse shooting may lead to further evidentiary developments before his trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific charges is Dalton Eatherly facing following the courthouse incident?
He has been charged with attempted murder, employing a firearm during a dangerous felony, Aggravated Assault, and Reckless Endangerment with a Deadly Weapon.
Why was Dalton Eatherly at the Montgomery County Courthouse on Wednesday?
According to online dockets, he was scheduled to appear at 9 a.m. As the defendant in a contract/debt case.
What happened during Eatherly’s recent encounter at Bob’s Steak & Chop House?
Eatherly allegedly refused to stop livestreaming, became disruptive, made racial statements, and refused to pay a bill totaling $371.55, leading to charges of disorderly conduct and theft of services.
How should the legal system balance the right to livestream with the necessity of maintaining order in public judicial spaces?
