CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — Dalton Eatherly, 28, known as 'Chud the Builder,' was arrested and charged with attempted murder after a shooting outside a courthouse in Clarksville, Tennessee, on Wednesday. Eatherly has gained notoriety for livestreaming racially derogatory comments directed at Black individuals in public spaces.
The incident, according to District Attorney Robert J. Nash, involved Eatherly and another unnamed individual during a confrontation that led to gunfire. Eatherly has also been charged with employing a firearm during a dangerous felony, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon.
Authorities did not disclose the race of the other man involved in the shooting, but witnesses reported he was Black and both individuals were transported to hospitals for stabilization.
Claire Martin, who works nearby, described Eatherly as notorious for instigating conflict in public settings, often filming himself while using racial slurs. She noted in the past century, such provocations often spiral into violence.
In a video filmed shortly after the incident, Eatherly claimed he had acted in self-defense, questioning whether he had inadvertently shot himself. At the time of the shooting, he was also facing a civil suit regarding a $3,300 debt, a hearing for which scheduled that morning.
Additionally, Eatherly was involved in another legal matter related to disorderly conduct in a Nashville restaurant where he reportedly refused to pay a nearly $400 bill, allegedly making racial statements during the incident. His actions and ongoing legal issues have drawn significant public scrutiny and concern.
As investigations continue, the community remains watchful of the implications of Eatherly's actions and the broader issues of race and violence they illuminate.
