Police chief’s son John C. Drake Jr. who was wanted in shooting of 2 officers outside a Dollar General store is found dead

Chief Drake has issued this statement concerning Tuesday night’s death of his son, John Drake, Jr., age 38.

“I am grateful to the members of law enforcement, including many officers from this department, who worked diligently since Saturday to locate my son and bring him into custody. It was my prayer that no harm would come to him or anyone else. I am heartbroken and saddened by the outcome. I appreciate the condolences and kind words of support as my family and I privately mourn our loss.”

Chief John Drake

La Vergne Police are currently engaged in an ongoing situation at the intersection of Stones River Road and Lake Forrest Drive.

Sources told Channel3 NOW that Two officers from La Vergne have been shot. The search for the shooter is underway.

The authorities stated that one of the officers, with nearly three years of service in the LVPD, sustained a gunshot wound to the rear left shoulder.

The other, who has been with the LVPD for approximately 18 months, was shot in the right groin and right forearm. Both officers were taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where they are reported to be in stable condition.

The La Vergne officers were identified as Ashely Boleyjack and Gregory Kern.

Authorities advise residents in the vicinity to stay indoors, secure their doors, and remain sheltered. Those not in the immediate area are urged to steer clear and seek alternative routes.

Authorities report that the suspect involved in the shooting, who remains at large, is described as 38-year-old John C. Drake, Jr., standing at 5 feet 11 inches tall with a muscular physique, dreadlocks, and facial hair.

The Metro Nashville Police Department Police Chief John Drake revealed in a statement to Channel3 NOW the suspect who allegedly shot two La Vergne officers is his estranged son.

“I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn that my estranged son, with whom I have had very minimal contact over many years, is the suspect in this afternoon’s shooting of the two La Vergne police officers. My thoughts and prayers are with the two officers, who I understand are now in stable condition at Vanderbilt.

Despite my efforts and guidance in the early and teenage years, my son, John Drake Jr., now 38- years-old, resorted to years of criminal activity and is a convicted felon. He has not been a part of my life for quite some time. He now needs to be found and held accountable for his actions today. I hope anyone who sees him or has information about him will contact law enforcement immediately.”

He was last sighted heading north on Stones River Road from the Dollar General store. The suspect was dressed in a black hat, a black t-shirt bearing a white hockey mask emblem on the front with red lettering, and gray pants.

Authorities have verified that several law enforcement agencies, such as the Nolensville Police Department, the Metro Nashville Police Department, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, are providing assistance in the La Vergne incident.

If you possess any information regarding Saturday’s shooting or the suspect, please contact the La Vergne Police Department at 615-793-7744.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.