Alyssa Lokits, 34, of Nashville, was fatally shot Monday evening while exercising on the Mill Creek Greenway off Old Hickory Boulevard, according to Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD). She was attacked at approximately 5:30 p.m., and witnesses claimed to have heard her scream for assistance. Lokits was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center after the incident, where she was subsequently declared deceased.
According to the police, Lokits was discovered in the forested area next to the trail, suffering from a gunshot wound. It appears she parked at a separate trailhead along Pettus Avenue before accessing the greenway, based on the location of her vehicle.
A four-door, dark-colored vehicle was reported by the authorities to have left the area and headed toward Old Hickory Boulevard. Investigators are diligently following leads, and no suspects have been taken into custody. Investigators combed the surroundings for hints, and a helicopter was sent in to help with the evidence hunt.
In a statement to News 2, the Metro Board of Parks and Recreation expressed shock and sadness over the deadly attack. They extended condolences to Lokits’ family, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. “We are shocked and saddened by this senseless tragedy. Our sincerest condolences to the family. We encourage anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Metro Nashville Police Department,” the statement read.
The inquiry is still underway, according to the authorities present at the site. While witnesses are being questioned by detectives, members of the public are being requested to provide any pertinent information. It is recommended that anybody with information on the shooting call the MNPPD at (615) 74-CRIME, (615) 742-7463, or (615) 862-8600.
Residents who visit the Mill Creek Greenway are concerned about the event. The route is generally seen as safe because it is a well-liked location for fitness and leisure. Although police have not yet disclosed any particular policy changes, suggestions for more security and patrols on the city's greenways have been made in response to this horrific incident.