Police say a planned fight involving several people ended when gunfire struck a fleeing middle school student.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A 24-year-old Nashville man has been charged with criminal homicide after police said he shot and killed a 12-year-old boy during a confrontation in a courtyard where several people had gathered for a planned fight.
Authorities identified the suspect as Devin Orr and the victim as Damarion Morehead, a 12-year-old middle school student. Investigators said the confrontation involved six or seven people and escalated into a physical fight before gunfire erupted. The case has drawn attention because of the age difference between those involved and the circumstances surrounding a dispute that police said centered on a female. Orr was arrested Monday and remains jailed without bond as the investigation continues.
According to investigators, the group met in a courtyard in Nashville to engage in a fight. During the confrontation, several participants allegedly punched and kicked Orr in the head. Police said the altercation continued for a period before Orr got back to his feet and produced a handgun. The appearance of the weapon caused people at the scene to scatter and run. Investigators allege that Orr fired two shots as people fled. One of the rounds struck Damarion in the head. Emergency responders transported the boy to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Police moved quickly to identify and locate the suspect, and officers arrested Orr the following morning. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the exact location of the meeting or how the participants arranged the encounter.
Investigators said witness statements and evidence gathered after the shooting helped establish the sequence of events. Court records cited by local media indicate that authorities believe Damarion was running away when the shots were fired. Police have not publicly released information suggesting the boy was armed. Detectives continue to review evidence, interview witnesses and determine the actions of each person present during the confrontation. Officials also have not explained how a 24-year-old became involved in a gathering that included children and teenagers. The circumstances leading to the dispute remain under review, though police have said the confrontation stemmed from a disagreement involving a female. Authorities have not identified that person publicly. Investigators likewise have not disclosed whether additional charges could be considered against anyone else involved in organizing or participating in the fight.
The death has left family members searching for answers and renewed concerns about youth violence and the presence of firearms during conflicts. Damarion’s relatives described him as a child who enjoyed football and maintained close relationships with family members. His great-grandmother, Nancy Givans, questioned why an adult was associating with much younger people and carrying a firearm to the gathering. Family members have focused on the decisions that led to the confrontation and the fatal outcome. The case also highlights a recurring challenge for law enforcement agencies across the country as disputes that might once have ended in fights increasingly involve guns. While investigators continue to examine the immediate circumstances, community members and relatives have expressed grief over the loss of a child whose life ended during what police described as a planned brawl.
Orr has been charged with criminal homicide, a serious felony offense under Tennessee law. Prosecutors are expected to present evidence as the case moves through the court system. Police said Orr allegedly admitted during an interview that he disposed of the firearm by placing it in a sewer along Charlotte Pike. Authorities have not announced whether the weapon has been recovered. Court proceedings are expected to address questions about intent, self-defense claims, witness accounts and forensic evidence. Investigators also are likely to continue examining video footage, physical evidence and statements from those present. The homicide charge marks the beginning of what could become a lengthy legal process as prosecutors seek to establish the events leading to Damarion’s death and defense attorneys prepare their response.
Friends and relatives have remembered Damarion as a young student with a love for football and strong family ties. His great-grandmother recalled one of their final conversations, saying he told her that he loved and respected her. Those memories have taken on greater significance as family members cope with the sudden loss. Community reaction has centered on the tragedy of a child dying during a conflict involving older individuals. Investigators have released limited details beyond the allegations contained in court documents and police statements, leaving several questions unanswered. Even so, the emotional impact has been clear among relatives who have spoken publicly about their grief and their desire to understand how the confrontation escalated to deadly violence.
The case remains active, with Orr being held without bond while prosecutors move forward. A court appearance is scheduled as the criminal proceedings begin. Investigators continue gathering evidence and reviewing witness accounts as officials work to determine whether additional developments or charges will emerge.
Author note: Last updated June 24, 2026.