Authorities in Maury County, Tennessee, are investigating a tragic shooting that claimed the lives of two individuals and left a third injured on the afternoon of Saturday, May 31, 2025. The incident unfolded in a quiet neighborhood on Somerset Lane, sending shockwaves through the local community.
The Columbia Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at approximately 3:07 p.m. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Tragically, 46-year-old John Bidle was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency medical responders rushed the other two victims to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville for urgent treatment.
Later that evening, 51-year-old Stacie Wright succumbed to her injuries during surgery, becoming the second fatality in this senseless act of violence. According to authorities, the third victim—whose identity has not yet been released—sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in stable condition.
Columbia Police confirmed that a 46-year-old male suspect has been arrested and is facing serious charges. These include two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder.
The name of the suspect has not been released at this time, and police have declined to provide a reason for withholding the information. In a statement issued late Saturday, CPD officials emphasized that their investigation is ongoing and that additional charges could be filed as the case progresses.
“Investigators are still processing the scene, conducting interviews, and combing through information. Other charges are likely at the conclusion of this investigation,” the department said in a press release.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Police have not disclosed any details regarding the relationship between the suspect and the victims, nor have they provided information about what may have led to the violent encounter.
Residents of the Somerset Lane neighborhood expressed deep concern and sorrow in the aftermath of the tragedy. The street, typically known for its calm and close-knit atmosphere, was the scene of a large police presence throughout the evening as investigators collected evidence and canvassed the area for witnesses.
“This is not something we’re used to seeing around here,” said one neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous. “It’s heartbreaking. We’re all just trying to make sense of what happened.”
Community members have begun organizing support efforts for the families of the victims. Friends of both John Bidle and Stacie Wright described them as kind, hardworking individuals who will be deeply missed.
Bidle, 46, was known for his generous nature and was a long-time resident of Columbia. Wright, 51, was beloved by her coworkers and friends for her compassion and joyful spirit. Their unexpected deaths have left an emotional void in the lives of many who knew them.
The Columbia Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers or directly to local law enforcement.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to uncovering the full scope of events that led to this devastating loss of life. Updates will be released as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, the Columbia community is left to mourn the lives taken far too soon and to support the recovery of the surviving victim.
