Homicide Unit detectives are pursuing leads as they work to identify the car burglars who this morning fatally shot an armed security guard in a parking lot of Illuzion Bar and Lounge, 2510 Murfreesboro Pike.
The deceased is identified as Maurice Thomas, Jr., 33.
The investigation shows that Thomas was patrolling the parking lot around 2 a.m. when he apparently encountered the car burglars. Multiple shots were fired. It has not been determined whether Thomas was able to discharge any rounds from his gun. Thomas was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he died from his wounds.
Officers discovered three burglarized vehicles in the parking lot. Those vehicles have been impounded and are being processed by evidence specialists.
Anyone with information about the persons responsible for the murder of Maurice Thomas is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.