Friday afternoon, Chris Ferrell was charged of second-degree murder in Nashville after the death of country music singer Wayne Mills. The Tennessean newspaper reports that Ferrell surrendered himself to police immediately after hearing of the charge. His bond is set at $300,000, but his lawyer, David Raybin, plans to contest the charge.
Chris Ferrell was the owner of the Pit and Barrel in Nashville. On Nov. 23, he shot Wayne Mills over smoking in a non-smoking area. Mills later died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Here is our exclusive coverage of the shooting.
According to Nashville Metro Police, "After a thorough evaluation of the crime scene, evidence, statements from witnesses and autopsy findings, lead Detective Leonard Peck and his colleagues at the Central Precinct did not substantiate Ferrell’s claim of self-defense. Detective Peck met with the grand jury this morning to discuss his findings, resulting in the subsequent issuance of the indictment."
Wayne Mills presence both on and off the stage was always one of a true gentleman. Fans will remember his traditional country music sound that would fit in alongside George Jones or Waylon Jennings on the jukebox. He leaves behind his wife, Carol, as well as his young son, Jack.
Services for Wayne Mills will be on Sunday, December 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the auditorium of Arab High School. The memorial service will begin in the auditorium at 1:30 p.m. A private burial will follow. No photography or video cameras are allowed, and cell phones must be turned off and kept out of view.
