NASHVILLE — The Metro Nashville Police Department is actively hunting a suspect in the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Jackailus Groves outside his girlfriend’s apartment early Sunday. 

According to police, Groves had just exited his SUV in the parking lot of the Parc at Metro Center Apartments on Athens Way when gunshots rang out. The shooter then placed Groves behind bushes on a back patio. He was found there and later died of his injuries. 

Groves’ pregnant girlfriend, who asked to remain anonymous, said she heard what sounded like an explosion before realizing the man she loved had been shot steps from her home. She described Groves as a family man who stayed out of trouble and had a lasting smile. 

The girlfriend expressed concern about the community’s security. She said that the complex’s gate had not closed properly for two or three days and that she hoped surveillance cameras captured the perpetrator’s vehicle. 

Police have not released any suspect names or descriptions so far. Anyone with information is urged to call Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Anonymous tips may qualify for a cash reward.