Police have revealed that Audrey Hale, the 28-year-old transgender artist responsible for the recent school shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville, plotted the attack for months, according to recent reports.
Attack Details and Planning
Audrey Hale fired a total of 152 shots during the attack at Covenant School, using a rifle, a pistol carbine, and a handgun. Police discovered these firearms at the scene and several more at the suspect’s home, including a sawed-off shotgun.
In journals found in Hale’s vehicle and bedroom, she documented her planning to commit mass murder at the school over a period of months. In addition to the journals, police found detailed diagrams of the school and maps showing possible points of entry for the attack.
To aid in their investigation of the incident, police have sent a copy of Hale’s manifesto to the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit in Quantico, Virginia. The manifesto, along with the artwork related to the attack, may provide insights into Hale’s potential motive and mindset leading up to the massacre.
Victims and Response
Before police could stop her, Hale killed three children and three adults, including a janitor, a substitute teacher, and the Head of School Katherine Koonce. Officers Rex Engelbert and Michael Collazo were among the first to respond to the scene and fired several rounds to protect themselves and others, according to Fox News.
Although they were able to fire only a few shots, they were successful in distracting the shooter and saving many lives. Police are still investigating Hale’s potential motive for the attack.