Cookeville, TN — In an alarming incident near Tennessee Tech University, a road rage altercation escalated into gunfire, prompting swift action from law enforcement and campus authorities.
On the evening of February 13, 2024, the Cookeville Police Department responded to reports of a firearm being discharged in the vicinity of 7th Street and N. Walnut Avenue, close to the university campus. Upon arrival, officers discovered that a bullet had penetrated the window of a nearby business, causing concern among customers and employees present at the time. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the perilous situation.
Further investigation revealed that the discharge was not accidental but a deliberate act stemming from a road rage incident. The suspect, identified as Chaz Colton Miller, 30, of Cookeville, was swiftly apprehended at the Marc L. Burnett Student Recreation and Fitness Center. Miller now faces 10 counts of Reckless Endangerment, a class C Felony, and is being held on a $150,000 bond.
Following the incident, Tennessee Tech University Police Department issued an emergency alert to students and faculty, urging them to “barricade and defend if necessary.” The campus community was advised to evacuate the area as a precautionary measure. Thankfully, the situation was swiftly contained, and the campus was later declared safe.
Authorities extend their gratitude to the Tennessee Tech University Police Department for their prompt response and assistance in apprehending the suspect. While the investigation remains ongoing, law enforcement assures the public that there is no further threat to the campus community.
