In the late summer of 1982, the city of Nashville lost one of its own in a sudden and violent act that stemmed from a domestic turmoil. Officer William Lee Bowlin, a 27-year-old Caucasian male, was a dedicated member of the Metro Nashville Police Department for just under five years. His life was tragically cut short on the evening of August 4, 1982, a date that also marked his two-month wedding anniversary.
The events that led to his untimely death began to unfold at a residence located at 1213 Litton Avenue in East Nashville, where he and two other officers were dispatched to investigate reports of shots being fired in connection with a domestic dispute.
The conflict had its roots in a court judgment earlier that day, which had ordered a 54-year-old man to return two lawnmowers and a car to his ex-girlfriend and former business partner. Angered by the court's decision, the man had armed himself. Upon the officers' arrival at the scene, they attempted to make contact with the residents. When no one answered the door, two of the officers proceeded to the rear of the house to investigate further, while Officer Bowlin began to walk back towards his patrol car. It was in this moment of vulnerability that he was ambushed. The suspect, concealed in nearby bushes and armed with a high-powered rifle, fired a single, fatal shot that struck Officer Bowlin in the head.
The ensuing investigation led to the arrest of the 54-year-old suspect who had lain in wait for the officers. He was subsequently charged with the murder of Officer William Lee Bowlin. The case proceeded to trial, where the evidence against him was overwhelming. He was found guilty of first-degree murder and was handed a life sentence for his calculated and brutal actions. Despite the severity of his crime and the life sentence imposed, the man was eventually granted parole at some point after 2003. Officer Bowlin was survived by his wife, mother, and father, who was the head of the Metro Intelligence Division, leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that is still remembered within the Nashville community and law enforcement family.
