Steven Hymes is now known as Nashville’s first homicide victim of 2025.
Steven was a 42-year-old man who had previously survived a gunshot wound to the head. The damage blew off part of his skull, leaving a large, noticeable soft spot on his head. He did not want help from his family, so he chose to live homeless. He stayed close to the river around Broadway and James Robertson Pkwy.
Despite his choice to remain homeless, he still maintained a relationship with his family. He had spent the holidays with his brother before returning to downtown Nashville about a week before he was found deceased.
On January 8th, 2025, two other homeless men notified an ambassador of a body they had found near the riverbank underneath the sidewalk and road of Gay St. and 1st Ave.
Fingerprints proved that the body belonged to Steven Hynes, who had been beaten to death. The official cause was ruled as blunt force trauma to the head. At the time of the media release, Law Enforcement did not know when the murder had occurred.
When the statement was released, it was said that Detectives were working to review video footage, but so far, no arrests have been made.
Steven still has loved ones who are very hurt over losing him.
His case deserves attention and justice. Our homeless are often overlooked as if they don’t matter, and that needs to change. We have to put a stop to the senseless killings of vulnerable individuals.
He does have family present, so please feel free to leave words of kindness and support.
