Who was Jillian Ludwig? Belmont University freshman died after being hit by stray bullet in Nashville park
An 18-year-old freshman identified as Jillian Ludwig, at Belmont University, died after being hit in the head by a stray bullet when she was strolling along a trail close to the Nashville campus. The incident happened in Edgehill Memorial Gardens Park on Tuesday afternoon, according to a report from the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. “Sadly,…
An 18-year-old freshman identified as Jillian Ludwig, at Belmont University, died after being hit in the head by a stray bullet when she was strolling along a trail close to the Nashville campus.
The incident happened in Edgehill Memorial Gardens Park on Tuesday afternoon, according to a report from the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. “Sadly, Jillian Ludwig passed away during the night,” the department said in a social media update on Thursday morning.
Who was Jillian Ludwig?
Jillian Ludwig was 18 years old. As described by the university president, she was an avid music lover and “avid runner who relished being outdoors.” She played bass and majored in music management. She was frequently seen at concerts, supporting her fellow musicians and utilizing music to build relationships with people.
According to the statement, it wasn’t until about an hour later that someone noticed her and informed the authorities when she was hit and passed out. She was in “extremely critical condition” when she was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
The 29-year-old suspect was located in Nashville with the use of witness statements and video surveillance. In a news release, he said that he had given the gun to someone else and admitted to firing the gun in a police headquarters interview with detectives.
Authorities and prosecutors are working together to revise the suspect’s charges in the wake of Ludwig’s death. According to jail records, he is currently being held on a $260,000 bond for the charges of aggravated assault and evidence tampering, for which he was first accused.
According to the news release, he is also charged with not showing up for court in connection with a carjacking that occurred in September.
“Jillian is an engaged member of our community who is known for her love of music and its incredible power,” Belmont University President Greg Jones said in a statement. This was sent out via email on Wednesday to students, faculty, and staff before the announcement of her death.
