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Nashville courthouse reopens Monday after destructive protests

Posted at 6:15 AM, Jun 01, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-01 11:13:04-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The historic Metro courthouse reopened Monday after it was vandalized and set fire to this weekend.

What started as a peaceful protest Saturday, ended with vandalism and destruction as chaos erupted in downtown in the wake of George Floyd's death.

Metro Police said they’re looking to identify those involved in the destruction. So far, they’ve made 29 arrests – that includes 25-year-old Wesley Somers, whom police believe set fire to the courthouse.

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Police arrested 25-year-old Wesley Somers in connection with the vandalism and fire set at the Nashville Historic Courthouse.

Saturday’s protest was peaceful, with Mayor John Cooper in attendance, but after it ended, the situation escalated – with a smaller group setting fires, breaking windows, looting and spraying graffiti around downtown.

Demonstrators then made their way to Broadway where a group broke into Margaritaville and other businesses. While many are behind bars, Metro police still need your help.

“We have a team of people reviewing all the video. We’ll be asking for the public’s help. We’ll be publicizing photos to identify people and charge them accordingly,” said Metro Nashville Police Chief Steve Anderson.

Chief Anderson said law enforcement will have a stronger presence not only on Broadway, but also in other business areas going forward.

More stories:

A violent night: Little spared from damage, destruction, and vandalism across Downtown

Broadway businesses vandalized, looted during protests

28 people arrested in Nashville during violent, destructive night

Photos: Businesses, buildings in Nashville damaged, vandalized