Nashville Shocked by Gruesome Robbery at Local Clothing Store
Nashville, Tennessee, was shaken to its core on May 29, 2024, when a robbery turned violent at the S. Fashion Clothing Store in South Nashville. The incident involved 38-year-old Pardrae Gooch, who has recently been charged with a series of serious crimes that have left both the community and law enforcement officials alarmed.
What Happened That Day?
According to documents and statements from the Acting United States Attorney, Thomas J. Jaworski, the day unfolded in a terrifying manner. Gooch entered the store with a sinister agenda. The lone female employee, referred to as Victim 1, became the target of brutal assault. Witnesses reported that Gooch choked her to the point of unconsciousness before further attacking her. It didn’t stop there—he pushed her into a bathroom where a struggle ensued over her mobile phone.
After he managed to steal Victim 1’s phone and car keys, he fled in her vehicle. Yet, before leaving the tragic scene, Gooch decided to escalate the situation even further by lighting a pile of clothes on fire inside the bathroom, effectively attempting to burn the store down with the victim trapped inside. Luckily, alert witnesses quickly dialed 911, prompting a swift response from specific emergency services.
Emergency Response: A Race Against Time
The Metro Nashville police officers and firefighters arrived promptly, tackling both the flames engulfing the store and the shocking ordeal of rescuing the victim. Upon finding her, the ambulance team took her to a local hospital where she was diagnosed with a cranial fracture among other injuries. Such injuries raised serious concerns and painted a grim picture of the violence inflicted upon her.
While the Nashville Fire Department succeeded in extinguishing the fire, the damage to the store was extensive, leaving it shut for several days as the cleanup and repairs began. Local residents and visitors, who often frequented the store for shopping, expressed their disbelief at the horrifying event that had unfolded in their neighborhood.
A Troubling Background
This shocking incident is even more alarming, considering that at the time of the robbery, Gooch was already on bond for previous domestic violence arrests involving two different women. Just eight days before the robbery, he had faced charges for violating an order of protection, raising questions about how he managed to be out on bond at all.
Facing Serious Consequences
Pardrae Gooch is now facing serious legal repercussions. He has been charged by a federal grand jury with robbery affecting interstate commerce, using fire to commit a felony, and damaging property by fire. If convicted on all charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and could potentially face up to 20 years in federal prison, alongside a hefty maximum fine of $250,000.
The investigation has been intricate, spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and the Nashville Fire Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn D. Risinger and Emily Petro, who are working diligently to seek justice for the victim and the community affected by this horrific act.
A Reminder of Justice
It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is merely an accusation, and everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Meanwhile, the Nashville community watches closely, hoping for justice and healing for the victim, who endured a terrifying experience.
