Disabled Man Assaulted in Failed Robbery Attempt at Nashville Transit Station

Man in Wheelchair Assaulted in Attempted Robbery at Downtown Transit Station

In a shocking incident in downtown Nashville, a disabled man was nearly robbed at the bustling Elizabeth Duff Transit Center Tuesday night. The suspect was later apprehended and taken into custody.

A Scuffle Over a Gift Card Sale Turns Violent

At around 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Metro Nashville Police Department officers were sent to the WeGo downtown station on Fourth Avenue North following reports of an attempted robbery. According to the resulting police report, 25-year-old James Claybrooks was in the process of selling a gift card to a man in a wheelchair for a pre-established price of $10. However, upon realizing that the man had more money, Claybrooks allegedly tried to take it.

In the ensuing struggle for the cash, the man reportedly fell from his wheelchair and into the busy street as he tried to stop Claybrooks from taking the remaining $80 from him. According to the police statement, Claybrooks dragged the man back onto the sidewalk and continued attempting to pry the money from his hand. Following his failed robbery attempt, Claybrooks reportedly kicked the man in the back of his head before retreating into the station building.

Evidence and Arrest

The entire altercation was reportedly caught by WeGo station security cameras. Based on the footage and statements from witnesses, officers apprehended Claybrooks on Seventh Avenue North and Commerce Street not long after the incident. When police found Claybrooks, they also discovered a Suboxone pill in his possession during a routine search.

Despite the tangible evidence, Claybrooks maintained that his interaction with the man in a wheelchair only involved a disagreement over the price of the gift card. He denied any allegations of robbery.

Charges Against the Suspect

Based on the security camera footage and eyewitness accounts of the incident, police subsequently charged Claybrooks with attempted robbery, assault, as well as possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

This disturbing incident has prompted concerns about safety at the Elizabeth Duff Transit Center and other stations. WeGo has reported that 68 people were arrested at its downtown Central Station in downtown Nashville over the past year. Moreover, about 1,500 students use this transit facility every day demonstrating the high human traffic and potential risk.

Public Reaction

This latest occurrence has raised critical questions about the safety and security measures in place to protect daily commuters, particularly the vulnerable and differently-abled population. Local communities and officials are keenly awaiting further developments in the case.