Demarcus Michael Alexander Hughes, also known as Alex Brooks, was 18 when he was shot and killed at West End Park in Cookeville, Tennessee, on October 6, 2023. A shooting at the park wounded Hughes and another juvenile; friends with him witnessed his final moments. Initial reports said two suspects fled on foot, but police later arrested a single 17-year-old juvenile whose name has not been released.

Investigators say the juvenile had brought a Glock to the park the day after his birthday and was waving it recklessly. The gun discharged from the passenger seat of a vehicle near the basketball court; the bullet passed through the driver’s side door and struck Hughes. The juvenile fled, hid the firearm, then later told police where it was. In January 2024 the juvenile pleaded guilty in Juvenile Court to Reckless Homicide, Aggravated Assault, and Tampering with Evidence and will remain in custody until age 19.

Hughes’ family and the Cookeville community remember him as kind, compassionate, and loyal; vigils were held and mentoring programs formed in his name. If anyone has information about that day at West End Park or knew Alex personally, please come forward and share what you know.