safety
Police drone captures video of suspect brandishing box cutter while robbing person in Nashville, police say
By Chasity Maynard at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 15, 2026
· 2 min read
What This Story Is AboutNashville police say they used a drone to help them capture two suspects during an active robbery. Why It MattersThe drone captured footage of one of the suspects allegedly brandishing a box cutter while holding one of the suspects, according to police.What Happens NextThe...
Key takeaway What Happens NextThe Drone as First Responder (DFR) trial started at the end of May, and it is expected to last 30 to 45 flight days.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The successful use of a police drone to capture suspects in an active robbery highlights the potential benefits of the Drone as First Responder program in Nashville . By providing real-time video footage, the drone allowed officers to respond more effectively and safely to the situation. The fact that the drone is limited to a two-mile radius of the Madison Precinct means that its impact will be felt most directly in this specific area of the city. As the trial phase of the program continues, it will be worth watching to see how the drone is used in other types of emergency situations, such as searches for missing persons or responses to natural disasters. The program's ability to assist in arrests, as seen in this case and the earlier domestic violence suspect arrest, suggests that it could be a valuable tool for the Metro Nashville Police Department in its efforts to keep the community safe.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? What This Story Is AboutNashville police say they used a drone to help them capture two suspects during an active robbery. Why It MattersThe drone captured footage of one of the suspects allegedly brandishing a box cutter while holding one of the suspects, according to police.What Happens NextThe...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Chasity Maynard at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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