In a tragic incident, six people were killed in a shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee. The shooter, identified as 28-year-old Audrey Hale, sent a chilling message to her former middle school basketball teammate just minutes before the attack, saying she was planning to die that day.
Hale messaged Averianna Patton on Instagram, writing, “So basically that post I made on here about you, that was basically a suicide note. I’m planning to die today. THIS IS NOT A JOKE!!! You’ll probably hear about me on the news after I die.” She added, “My family doesn’t know what I’m about to do. One day this will make more sense. I’ve left more than enough evidence behind. But something bad is about to happen.”
Despite Patton’s attempts to comfort and encourage Hale and calling the Nashville Davidson County Sheriff’s Office and non-emergency line, the shooting took place at the school, leaving three 9-year-olds and three staff members dead.
“I tried to comfort and encourage her and subsequently reached out to the Suicide Prevention Help Line after being instructed to by my father,” Patton said. “Audrey has shared with others that she had been suicidal in the past, and I knew to take this serious.”
The shooting took place at a private Christian academy, and Hale was identified as transgender. While the motive for the shooting is not yet known, it is clear that Hale was struggling with mental health issues and reached out to a friend in her final moments.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and support. It is important to reach out to loved ones who may be struggling and offer them the help they need. Suicide prevention hotlines and resources are available for those in need, and it is crucial to utilize them. As a society, we need to work towards creating a more supportive and compassionate environment for those who may be struggling with mental health issues.
