Ryan A. Nicholson, 29, was shot and killed on October 15, 2021, inside the Tipton Street Pub in Johnson City, Tennessee. Court documents state he was struck three times after an altercation with Jonathan Murphy, who reportedly arrived shortly before the shooting, argued with Nicholson, drew a handgun and fled the scene. Murphy was later arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

An additional arrest was made: Demarquiste’ Fugh was charged with tampering with evidence after authorities say he removed a handgun from Nicholson’s body and hid it at his home. Reports raised concerns about the bar’s security and whether different protocols might have prevented the incident.

Nicholson is remembered by family and friends as a vibrant man and devoted father to Natalie, Lauren, De’Andre and Mariah. The community held a vigil in his memory and his family has said they are pursuing justice and legal claims. If anyone has information about what happened that night at the Tipton Street Pub, please come forward.