In the early morning hours of September 23, 2017, a Nashville family was forever changed by a senseless act of violence. James L. Perry, a 34-year-old Black male known affectionately to his loved ones as 'Pac-Man' for his love of cooking, was fatally shot. The incident occurred around 5:00 a.m. at 1903 12th Avenue North in North Nashville. Perry was returning to a car where his girlfriend was waiting when he was ambushed by a man wearing a hoodie who shot him multiple times.
Despite his girlfriend immediately alerting the police, Perry succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The shooter fled after the attack, disappearing into the early morning darkness. The Nashville Police Department launched an investigation, but the case quickly grew cold. Detectives believe Perry was targeted, and that the shooting was a deliberate and brutal act, not a robbery gone wrong. They have collected physical evidence from the scene, but have stated that witness cooperation is crucial to corroborating that evidence and moving the investigation forward.
Years have passed since James Perry's life was cut short, and his murder remains unsolved. His sister has been a vocal advocate for justice, pleading with the public for anyone with information to come forward. The neighborhood where the shooting occurred is said to be gripped by a fear of retaliation, which has hampered the investigation as potential witnesses are hesitant to speak to the police. The Nashville Police Department's Cold Case Homicide Unit continues to investigate Perry's murder and has offered a reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. To date, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The case remains a painful open wound for Perry's family, who continue to hope for answers and justice for their beloved 'Pac-Man.'
