Deadly shooting by Clarksville Pike, shooter claims self-defense

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — No charges are being placed currently after a deadly shooting of a man by a Clarksville Pike convenience store clerk on Thursday morning as detectives continie to investigate the clerk’s claim of self-defense.

The victim was identified as 23-year-old Cornell M. Evans of Memphis, according to Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD).

North Precinct officers were dispatched to a shooting call at the 7-eleven store on 3200 Clarksville PIke around 5: 30 a.m.

The clerk, 23-year-old Devyon Johnson, told detectives that Evans entered the store and went directly to the restroom, staying there for an unusual period of time.

This prompted Johnson asking him to leave. Johnson said Evans exited the bathroom in a furious state as he berated him and other employees.

After Evans was repeatedly asked to leave and left the store, Johnson walked to the front of the parking lot, trying to persuade Evans to leave the property.

While on a sidewalk in front of the business, Johnson said Evans approached him aggressively and took a fighting stance.

A physical fight began and Johnson said as he was being punched from behind, he drew a pistol and shot at Evans to protect himself.

Evans was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he died shortly after arrival.

Johnson provided a detailed statement to Homicide detectives and the case will be staffed with the District Attorney’s Office at the conclusion of the investigation.