Metro Nashville Police Department, Tennessee
End of Watch Wednesday, October 9, 1991
Add to My HeroesJames Ronnie Woodard, Sr.
Lieutenant James Woodard was shot and killed in the early morning hours after stopping a car he suspected had been stolen.
The suspect pulled the vehicle into a bank parking lot at 747 Fessiers Lane and opened fire as Lieutenant Woodard approached the car. Lieutenant Woodard was able to return fire, striking the suspect in the buttocks. A passerby noticed Lieutenant Woodard lying next to his patrol car and used the cruiser's radio to call for help. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries approximately 30 minutes later.
The suspect was arrested approximately two hours after the incident. The 28-year-old suspect was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. He will be eligible for parole in 2026.
Lieutenant Woodard had served with the Metro Nashville Police Department for eighteen years. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, three sons, parents, two brothers, two sisters, and four grandchildren.
Bio
- Age 46
- Tour 18 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 36 ReflectionsRest in peace Lt. Woodard.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
May 15, 2021
Recent LODD Deaths
Major Michelle Lynn Quintero
Madison County Sheriff's Office, NC
EOW: September 27, 2024
Deputy Sheriff Ralph "Butch" Waller
Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: November 21, 2024
Corporal Luis Paez
Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: November 21, 2024
Police Officer Evan Dunn
Golden Police Department, CO
EOW: November 6, 2024
Police Officer Enrique Martinez
Chicago Police Department, IL
EOW: November 4, 2024
Detective Clarence E. Word, III
New York City Police Department, NY
EOW: October 1, 2024
Trooper Corey S. Thompsen
Illinois State Police, IL
EOW: October 18, 2024
Detective Maurice "Mo" Joseph
Norfolk Police Department, VA
EOW: October 9, 2024
Corrections Officer Bradford D. McNew
Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: October 12, 2024