Outstanding coordination today between North Precinct officers and Domestic Violence detectives led to the arrest of Bricen John Rivers, 23, of Mississippi, following the kidnapping and brutal beating of his 22-year-old girlfriend early this morning. The victim’s family called from out of state advising dispatchers she called them screaming, afraid that her boyfriend may kill her.
The couple came to Nashville last Thursday for vacation and were staying at a short-term rental. They had been visiting downtown Sunday evening when Rivers became upset, and they left a bar.
While in the car, Rivers began hitting the victim as he was driving and took her phone. Rivers eventually stopped the car in a parking lot where the assault continued, causing the victim to nearly lose consciousness.
Officers worked with the victim’s family to obtain her location in North Nashville near Scovel Street, where the couple’s rental car was found at the 9th Street intersection. Officers could hear the victim banging on the vehicle as she tried to escape the attack.
She was able to get out the car upon officer’s arrival. Rivers was seen reaching for a firearm in the back seat, but officers were able to interrupt him and he was taken into custody.
The victim was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with significant injuries, but is expected to make a full recovery.
Rivers is charged with especially aggravated kidnapping and interference with an emergency call. He is currently being held in lieu of $251,000 bond.
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Bricen John Rivers, 23