CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A man who goes by “Chud the Builder” and livestreams himself saying racially derogatory statements to Black people in public settings was arrested and charged with attempted murder after a shooting outside a Tennessee courthouse on Wednesday, authorities said.
Dalton Eatherly, 28, and an unidentified man were involved in a confrontation that resulted in gunfire, District Attorney Robert J. Nash said in a statement. However, Nash declined to disclose further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Both men were transported to hospitals for medical treatment and were reported to be in stable condition.
Eatherly faces several charges, including attempted murder, employing a firearm during a dangerous felony, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon.
Witnesses noted Eatherly's history of provocative behavior, often filming confrontations while using racial slurs. “He’s well known in Clarksville for antagonizing people,” said Claire Martin, a local attorney. This incident raises serious concerns about the impact of such confrontations on community safety and social harmony.
Details surrounding Eatherly's intended presence at the courthouse on the day of the shooting remain unclear, although he was reportedly dealing with personal debt issues.
Recent videos show Eatherly’s aggressive interactions with individuals using highly offensive language. His actions have attracted critiques about disrespect and hatred disguised as free speech. This incident is further complicated by a previous arrest for theft of services after a disturbance at a Nashville restaurant.
Clarksville residents express concerns that Eatherly’s behavior is not just personal but indicative of wider societal issues surrounding race and violence. The case is ongoing, with authorities updating the public on Eatherly's legal proceedings.
