Tennessee Man Faces $1.25 Million Bond After Courthouse Shooting Incident
A Tennessee individual, known online as Chud the Builder, has been thrust into the spotlight following a courthouse shooting. This social media figure, notorious for sharing racist content, has been charged with attempted murder and is currently facing a $1.25 million bond.
28-year-old Dalton Eatherly stands accused of engaging in a violent confrontation outside the Montgomery County Courthouse. The incident reportedly began as a verbal disagreement, escalating when Eatherly allegedly adopted a threatening stance and reached for a firearm. The altercation quickly turned physical, resulting in Eatherly discharging his weapon multiple times.
The victim was airlifted to a Nashville hospital for emergency surgery and is reported to be in stable condition. However, the hospital has not released further details, citing privacy laws.
According to an affidavit, numerous bystanders were present during the shooting, and surveillance footage captured a projectile ricocheting off nearby structures. Reports also indicate that Eatherly accidentally shot himself in the arm during the incident.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
During a recent court appearance, prosecutors advocated for Eatherly to be held without bond until a comprehensive hearing. However, Judge H. Reid Poland III set a substantial bond, acknowledging the potential risk Eatherly posed due to the presence of many individuals at the scene.
Besides the attempted murder charge, Eatherly faces accusations of using a firearm during a dangerous felony, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment. His legal troubles are compounded by previous cases in which he was released on bond, including a harassment charge in Montgomery County and various charges in Nashville.
Eatherly’s legal representative, Jacob Fendley, addressed concerns regarding the case, stating in an email, “The role of a criminal defense attorney is to represent people regardless of their race, religion, ideology, or allegations against them.” He also dismissed accusations of racism directed at his office.
Background and Social Media Presence
Eatherly, a white male, has gained notoriety for his online activities where he employs racial slurs to provoke Black individuals. While authorities have not disclosed the race of the shooting victim, a witness described the individual as Black.
Currently detained at the Montgomery County jail, Eatherly awaits a full bond hearing scheduled for May 21, with a preliminary hearing set for May 26.
