Pre-Prom Celebration Turns Tragic After Deadly Shooting at Duck Park in Brownsville, Tennessee

A celebration connected to prom night turned tragic Friday evening in Brownsville after a shooting at Webb F. Banks Passive Park—commonly known by locals as Duck Park—left one person dead and multiple others injured.

According to preliminary reports, the shooting occurred during a pre-prom gathering attended by students associated with Haywood High School. Witnesses say many students had gathered at the park to take senior prom photos and spend time together before the evening’s events when gunfire suddenly erupted.

Authorities say at least four students were shot, while one individual was pronounced dead. Additional injuries have also been reported, though officials have not yet confirmed the total number of victims or the extent of their injuries.

The Haywood County Sheriff’s Office, along with other local agencies, responded quickly to the scene as panic spread throughout the park. Witnesses described chaotic moments as students, parents, and families ran for safety after hearing multiple gunshots.

“There were kids everywhere taking pictures one minute, and then suddenly everyone started screaming and running,” one witness said.

Law enforcement officers secured the area while emergency medical teams treated victims and transported the injured for further medical care. Authorities also launched a search for the suspect, who was reportedly seen fleeing the area after the shooting.

Police have not yet announced any arrests, and investigators are still working to determine what led to the violence.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Brownsville community, where what was supposed to be a joyful night for students and families instead became a scene of fear and heartbreak.

Parents and community members gathered near the scene anxiously awaiting updates as officers continued their investigation late into the evening.

Officials are urging anyone with information, photos, or video footage connected to the shooting to contact authorities as the investigation remains active.

The incident remains a developing story, and more details are expected to be released as investigators continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.