On the evening of Saturday, July 6, 2024, a dispute over fireworks at a residence on Jordan Lane in Dayton, Tennessee, ended with the fatal shooting of 40-year-old Heather Danielle Higgins of Rhea County. Higgins, described as a caregiver and mother who was known by some as a peacekeeper, stepped between parties during an argument involving Troy Cranston Butler, 57, and homeowner William Jordan. Butler reportedly arrived in a pickup truck armed with a .45-caliber handgun. Higgins was shot in the chest in the front yard and later died at Rhea Medical Center after deputies attempted life-saving measures.

Troy Cranston Butler was arrested and charged with criminal homicide; at his arraignment, a judge set bond at $5 million. The shooting has left the Dayton community mourning. If anyone witnessed the incident or has information that could help investigators, please come forward.