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Police say Christmas Day explosion in Nashville believed to be intentional

Dec. 25, 2020 06:34PM EST
 Dan Ackermann

Authorities in Nashville said they believe an explosion in the city's downtown on Friday morning was an "intentional act" that originated from a vehicle, the Tennesseean reports.

What's new: At a press briefing Friday afternoon, Nashville police said they responded to a shots fired call near the explosion area. When authorities arrived, they found an RV with a "recording" saying a bomb would detonate in 15 minutes. They then began evacuating people.

  • A Nashville police spokesperson said it was unclear whether there was a person in the RV and also denied reports that a body had been found.
  • Authorities said they don't believe there are any other imminent threats, but they are conducting sweeps with canine units in the downtown area "as a precaution."

What's happening: Nashville Fire spokesman Joseph Pleasant said at least three people have been hospitalized with injuries because of the blast, per CNN. Metro Nashville Police are investigating the explosion, along with the FBI and the ATF.

  • President Trump has been briefed on the explosion and will continue to receive regular updates, said White House spokesperson Judd Deere.

These are pictures from 2nd Avenue south. Windows were broken out from explosion area to Broadway. Please AVOID this area! Media staging is at 2nd Avenue south and KVB. pic.twitter.com/tocdpHWFgj

— Nashville Fire Dept (@NashvilleFD) December 25, 2020

This story has been updated with details from a Nashville police briefing. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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