Nashville, Tennessee – A Nashville man with a prior murder conviction is facing new federal charges after authorities say he shot an unarmed victim at close range outside a local extended-stay hotel. A federal grand jury has indicted James Lafayette Moore, 51, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, according to an announcement from United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee.
The charge stems from a violent incident on August 24, 2025, at the My Town Extended Stay on Antioch Pike in Nashville. Federal law prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms, and prosecutors allege Moore violated that law during the shooting.
“Our top priority is protecting our community from violent offenders who, despite records of serious violence, are back on the street committing more violence,” said U.S. Attorney Braden Boucek. “If you have a prior conviction for a violent felony and you use a gun to commit another violent crime then we will bring the full might of federal law enforcement to bear in holding you accountable.”
Shooting captured on surveillance video
According to court documents, Moore shot an unarmed man four times at point-blank range, striking the victim in the face, neck, and upper body while the two were on a balcony at the Antioch Pike property. The shooting was captured on surveillance cameras.
After the gunfire, bystanders helped police by pointing officers in the direction Moore fled. Officers located him shortly afterward at a Twice Daily gas station on Harding Place.
A police K9 unit assisted officers in recovering the firearm used in the shooting. Investigators found the pistol hidden in a shrub near the gas station.
Authorities have not released additional details about the victim’s condition.
Prior murder conviction and parole release
Court records show Moore has a significant violent criminal history. On June 2, 1993, he was convicted of first-degree murder in Rutherford County Circuit Court and sentenced to life in prison. He was granted parole on March 14, 2024, after serving decades behind bars.
The federal indictment now places him back in the criminal justice system. If convicted of the firearm charge, Moore faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Carlin C. Hess is prosecuting the case.
Federal officials say the indictment reflects ongoing efforts to target violent offenders and enforce federal firearms laws. Authorities emphasized that removing illegal firearms from the hands of convicted felons remains a key priority in efforts to reduce violent crime and improve public safety.
As the case proceeds through federal court, Moore remains accused but not convicted of the new charges. Prosecutors say they will pursue the case to hold him accountable under federal law if the allegations are proven.
