The Rutherford County community is mourning the tragic loss of 27-year-old Kirsten Teaster following a deadly shooting on Silvers Lake Road that also left a 17-year-old juvenile seriously injured.
According to the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence around 4 p.m. on May 20, 2026, after multiple 911 calls reported that two people had been shot. When first responders arrived, they found Kirsten Teaster suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 17-year-old juvenile was also injured during the incident and was transported to a trauma-level medical center for treatment. Authorities have not released the juvenile’s identity as the investigation remains ongoing.
Investigators say deputies immediately detained the suspected shooter, identified as Robert Lee Scruggs III, following the incident. After processing the scene, conducting interviews, and consulting with the District Attorney’s Office, authorities charged Scruggs with one count of Voluntary Manslaughter.
The heartbreaking shooting, which investigators say occurred between neighbors, has left many residents stunned and saddened as loved ones struggle to come to terms with Kirsten Teaster’s sudden death. Friends and family members have already begun sharing emotional tributes and condolences online, remembering her as someone whose life was taken far too soon.
Authorities stated Scruggs was initially held without bond before later receiving a $100,000 secured bond during a court appearance.
