Columbia, Tennessee—A tragic incident on May 31 resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a former resident of Terre Haute, Stacie Lynn Malone Wright. The violent attack unfolded in a residential neighborhood, where gunfire also left another person injured.
Wright, 51, who was a graduate of Terre Haute North Vigo High School and Indiana State University, was shot multiple times by a neighbor, 41-year-old Byron Childers. Authorities have charged Childers with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder following the attack. Reports indicate that he approached and shot John Bidle, 46, in front of his house before continuing his assault on Wright, who had stepped outside to investigate the commotion.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as Childers shouted phrases indicating that he believed he had vanquished a “demon from hell.” Following his initial attacks, Childers reportedly opened fire on an ice cream truck parked nearby, injuring the driver in the hip as bullets struck the vehicle multiple times.
Wright was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. Prior to this tragic event, she was employed as a talent acquisition specialist at Ultium Cells in Tennessee.
Born to the late Silver Ruth Barksdale Malone and Pastor Cleytus D. Malone, Wright leaves behind her husband, Sean Wright, and two children, Sydni and Sean Michael, all of Columbia. She is also survived by her father and brother, Cleytus and Dwayne Malone, respectively, both residing in Terre Haute.
A memorial service is set for June 14 at Saints Home Church of God in Christ in Terre Haute, where family and friends can pay their respects during visitation from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., followed by the funeral at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, family members request donations to support a GoFundMe campaign honoring Wright’s legacy.
The Boys and Girls Club of South Central Tennessee expressed their profound sorrow at her passing. In a heartfelt statement, they commemorated Wright as a dedicated volunteer and mentor who brought joy and warmth to her community. Her contributions, from fundraising events to youth mentoring, left a lasting impact, embodying the spirit of service.
The loss of Wright resonates deeply within the community, leaving many to reflect on her kindness and enduring influence. “Her presence made everything better,” the organization noted, illustrating the void her absence will create in the lives she touched. As friends, family, and colleagues mourn, they hold on to the cherished memories of a remarkable woman who gave selflessly to those around her.