Rep. John Rose, R-Tenn., has finally accessed FBI documents related to the 2023 Covenant School shooting after years of frustration with what he described as the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department’s stonewalling. The release of the files, including the writings of suspect Audrey Hale, comes under the leadership of FBI Director Kash Patel, who is credited with providing the information swiftly and transparently. Rose, a Republican representative, expressed his appreciation for the FBI’s commitment to transparency, stating that the information provided confirms his long-standing suspicions. However, he criticized the MNPD for their lack of cooperation, saying that without this information, policymakers cannot make informed decisions.
The documents, which are under seal and subject to legal battles, include Hale’s writings and plans, which were initially protected by copyright law. MNPD officials acknowledged concerns that the detailed writings could inspire copycat violence and cited court orders restricting public access to certain materials. Rose, however, argued that the public has a right to this information to prevent similar tragedies in the future. He emphasized that policymakers cannot base decisions on speculation when the facts are available.
Nashville police also released their final report on the shooting, which found that Hale left behind numerous notebooks, art books, and computer documents about plans to commit the attack and gain notoriety, partly inspired by the Columbine school shooting in 1999. The report highlights the meticulous investigation conducted by law enforcement and the bravery of the officers who responded to the scene. Despite the release of some information, the Chancery Court’s order remains in place to restrict the public release of certain materials, citing potential risks of copycat violence.
Rose expressed his sympathy for the victims of the shooting and acknowledged the sensitivity of the information. However, he argued for the accessibility of the documents to better understand the perpetrator’s motives and prevent future incidents. MNPD denied any allegations of stonewalling, emphasizing their adherence to the court’s orders. The release of the documents marks a significant step in the ongoing legal and public discourse surrounding the tragedy, highlighting the balance between transparency and public safety.