Detectives with the Metro Nashville Police Department are investigating after a teen shot and killed his stepfather Sunday afternoon. Officers were called to the Southwood Park apartments and found 36-year-old Jose Danilo Rodas suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he later died.
The suspect has been identified as 19-year-old Nathan Hensley, who was interviewed by homicide detectives along with his mother. She is married to Rodas. They reported that Rodas had been shouting at his wife when Hensley entered the apartment and found Rodas choking his mother nearly to the point of unconsciousness.
Hensley said that then Rodas came after him. Hensley says he was forced to defend himself. He retrieved a gun and shot Rodas. Detectives reported finding visible hand marks and bruising on the mother’s neck when they arrived.
So far authorities have not filed any charges against Hensley. The investigation into the incident continues. Detectives are reviewing evidence to determine whether the self-defense claim is justified.