The preliminary investigation into today’s fatal shooting of Johnnie Thompson, 81, inside his Claiborne Street apartment points to it being accidental, although his death is unclassified at present pending autopsy results.
According to a 67-year-old friend who was visiting Thompson this morning, Thompson was demonstrating the use of a Derringer pistol when he dropped the gun on the floor, causing it to discharge. Thompson was struck in the chest. He was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
The investigation remains open.