The Rutherford County community is mourning the tragic loss of 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 responders were dispatched around 4 p.m. on May 20, 2026, after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire at a residence. When authorities arrived, they found Teaster suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 17-year-old juvenile was also injured during the incident and transported to a trauma-level medical center for treatment. Officials have not publicly released the juvenile’s identity as the investigation continues.

Investigators stated that the suspected shooter, identified as Robert Lee Scruggs III, was detained shortly after the incident. Following interviews, evidence collection, and consultation with the District Attorney’s Office, authorities charged him with one count of voluntary manslaughter.

News of the shooting has left neighbors, friends, and family members stunned as they grieve the sudden loss of Kirsten Teaster. Tributes and condolences have continued to appear online, with loved ones remembering her as someone whose life ended far too soon.

Authorities also stated that Scruggs was initially held without bond before later receiving a $100,000 secured bond during a court appearance.

As the investigation remains ongoing, the community continues to mourn while seeking answers surrounding the tragic incident that forever changed the lives of those involved.