NASHVILLE, Tenn.--The Nashville school shooter who killed three children and three staffers at The Covenant School left what appear to be personal references on the weapons used during the attack.
Audrey Hale, identified by Metro Nashville Police as the shooter, was described by police as a “biological female” who was transgender. Police say Hale’s parents report Hale was receiving treatment for an emotional disorder. Hale had purchased seven weapons legally in the Nashville area, three of them found on Hale at the scene.
Police provided photos of the weapons found on Hale, each with stickers or markings each consistent with being placed post-manufacturing.
One of the weapons, an assault rifle as described by police, has the word "Aiden" written on the stock of the rifle. The name is also part of a social media profile used by Hale. On the profile, which has been since removed, Hale listed social links which included links to "creative.aiden" and "Aiden Creates" under Hale's 'About' section.
A self-described illustrator and graphic designer, the same assault rifle also included what appears to be a distinct sticker of a skull with lightning star eyes. Similar images found online indicate it is a reference to KAWS, an American artist and graphic artist with over 4 million followers on Instagram who is known worldwide. Among his art collections is what is known as his work 'Companion,' which is the same skull design minus the lightning star eyes.
Another weapon found on Hale, a 9mm rifle, displays red tape with the word 'Hellfire' visible. Merriam-Webster dictionary defines Hellfire as "the eternal fire of hell that tortures sinners." Hale once attended The Covenant School, a Christian Pre-K through 6 school.
Police say more information will be released as the investigation continues. Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake says his agency and the FBI are investigating a manifesto and writing left behind by Hale which show the attack on the school was targeted. Motive for the attack however, has not been identified.