Knoxville News-Sentinel
JACKSON, Tenn. — A parolee was charged Friday with aggravated assault in connection with a deadly shootout last month at a crowded Jackson nightclub.
Police said Travis Lamonte Steed, 30, of Jackson was charged in the Feb. 26 shooting at the Karma Lounge that left one man dead and about 20 wounded, including Steed. Partygoers fled for the exit when the shooting started around 2 a.m.
After a series of fights at the club, Steed fired his handgun at a group of people, officers said. Two people returned fire, hitting him several times.
Steed was released from a hospital Thursday, and was taken into custody. Authorities said they did not know if he had an attorney to speak on his behalf about the charges.
He also was charged with possessing a firearm as a felon. He served time for cocaine possession and reckless endangerment, with his parole due to expire in 2017.
He was the first person charged in the case. But police said the homicide investigation is continuing.
Evidence from the crime scene will be submitted to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab for ballistic comparison. The lounge owner has surrendered his business and beer licenses and agreed to shut the business down.
Two people were trampled as patrons frantically scrambled to get out.
Steed is to appear in court on Monday.
Copyright 2012 Knoxville News-Sentinel Co.