Precision policing and outstanding investigation by Violent Crimes Division detectives led to this morning’s arrest of Pardrae Gooch, 37, for the May 29 robbery at S Fashion clothing store, 4702 Nolensville Pike, in which the female clerk was badly beaten, her car stolen, and the business set on fire.
South Precinct officers responded to the robbery at 3:20 p.m. and found the victim with serious injuries. She reported that the suspect came into the store and acted as if he was going to make a purchase. He asked for her assistance in the back of the store. When she responded, he pushed her into a back hallway. After she tried to retrieve her cell phone, he grabbed her by the throat and punched her in the eye, knocking her unconscious. The suspect fled in her vehicle. When she regained consciousness, she managed to get to the front door where neighboring business employees saw her and called police. She received treatment for a fractured cranium and is recovering.
The witnesses also saw smoke coming from the back of the business. Nashville Fire Department personnel responded and the blaze was extinguished. NFD arson investigators determined the fire took place in the back of the building where the assault occurred.
At the time of his arrest, Gooch was free on bond for domestic violence related arrests involving two women. His last arrest was on May 21 for violating an order of protection.
Gooch, convicted of aggravated robbery in 2016, is now charged with especially aggravated robbery, theft of a vehicle, aggravated arson, and vandalism. He is being held in lieu of $259,000 bond.
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