Updated Dec 25, 2020 - Economy

Police say Christmas Day explosion in Nashville believed to be intentional

Fadel Allassan

Nashville following the explosion. — Photo: Mark Humphrey/AP

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.
Flights out of the Nashville International Airport have been halted due to telecommunication issues believed to be connected to the explosion, per AP.
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.

This story has been updated with the suspension of flights out of Nashville. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

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Police say Christmas Day explosion in Nashville believed to be intentional

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