In a remarkable act of bravery, a man intervened during a violent incident at a Waffle House in Nashville, Tennessee, early one Sunday morning. When a gunman armed with an AR-15 semiautomatic rifle opened fire, claiming four lives, bystander Mark Thompson risked his own life to tackle the shooter and prevent further bloodshed.
Thompson, a 29-year-old electrician and a father, downplayed his actions, stating at a press conference that he viewed himself as “just an ordinary person” rather than a hero. “I don’t want people to think I’m some kind of superhero,” he remarked. “I just knew that if I was going to die, he was going to have to earn it.”
The incident unfolded around 3:25 a.m. at the Antioch Waffle House, where Thompson was dining with a friend after a night out. According to the Nashville Police Department, the assailant, Travis Mitchell, began firing outside the establishment while wearing only a green jacket. After shooting two individuals outdoors, he entered the restaurant and continued his assault.
Initially mistaking the gunfire for the sounds of breaking dishes, Thompson soon realized the gravity of the situation when the front window shattered. Seeking shelter behind a bathroom door, he was grazed by a bullet. Noticing the gunman pause for a moment, Thompson seized the opportunity, struck the man with the bathroom door, and wrested the firearm from him. He then threw the gun over the counter, placing it out of reach, and pushed the assailant outside before fleeing the scene himself.
After the confrontation, Thompson was treated for a gunshot wound and burns on his hand caused by the hot barrel of the weapon. He later shared with reporters that thoughts of his four-year-old daughter, Mia, filled his mind as he was transported to the hospital. “I realized I might never see my little girl again, and that was heartbreaking,” he shared.
When questioned about his ability to confront the shooter, Thompson acknowledged that he lacked formal combat training but felt an instinctual drive to protect himself and others. “I just have to wrestle my daughter to put her to bed every night,” he humorously added.
Despite his modesty, many agree that Thompson’s actions saved lives that night. Nashville Police spokesperson Carla Dawson affirmed, “He is undeniably a hero, and there’s no question that he prevented further casualties.” The city’s mayor reached out to express gratitude for Thompson’s courage, and the two attended church together just hours after the shooting.
This incident highlights ongoing discussions regarding gun violence, especially given the mass shootings associated with AR-15 rifles, which the shooter obtained despite prior mental health issues. A manhunt is currently underway as authorities search for the suspect.
In the aftermath, Thompson initiated a GoFundMe campaign for the victims’ families, raising over $20,000 within a day. For those interested in understanding more about fertility and family planning, resources such as CDC’s infertility FAQs and insights on embryo screening are invaluable. Additionally, if you’re looking for ways to boost fertility, consider exploring the benefits of a fertility booster for men.
In conclusion, Mark Thompson’s quick thinking and selfless actions not only saved lives but also sparked a conversation about the complexities of gun violence and personal bravery in the face of danger.