UPDATED: WINCHESTER, TN — What began as a medical emergency at Twin Creeks Marina has now turned into a homicide investigation after authorities determined a local man died from an apparent gunshot wound believed to be caused by a stray bullet. Twin Creeks Marina is on on Tims Ford Lake. 

On July 4th, Winchester Police officers responded to a call on Twin Creeks Marina Drive near River Watch Way after a man was found unresponsive. Initially, officers believed the man, later identified as John Cobb, age 61, of Springfield, Tennessee, had suffered a medical emergency and collapsed.

However, during emergency medical treatment, it was discovered that Mr. Cobb had actually been struck by what is believed to be a bullet, possibly from a rifle. Tragically, Mr. Cobb later passed away from his injuries.

Early witness testimony and preliminary findings suggest the bullet may have been fired recklessly into the air from an unknown location, eventually striking Mr. Cobb during its descent.

The Winchester Police Department has confirmed that the bullet does not appear to have been fired from the immediate vicinity of the marina. Investigators are now working to determine where the shot originated and who may have fired it.

Authorities are urging the public to remember the dangers of celebratory gunfire, especially during holiday gatherings. Stray bullets fired into the air can travel significant distances and pose deadly risks to people far from where the shot was fired.

The Winchester Police Department continues to actively investigate the circumstances of Mr. Cobb’s death. Officials are asking anyone with information about gunfire in the area on July 4th to come forward to help piece together what happened.

Falling Bullet? A rifle bullet's maximum travel distance in the air varies significantly depending on the cartridge, rifle, and environmental conditions, but can range from one to several miles. Factors like bullet weight, velocity, angle of fire, and air resistance all play a role. While a bullet can travel a long distance, its effective range (the distance at which it can reliably hit a target) is much shorter. In general, a .22 caliber bullet can travel over 1.5 miles. Some rifle rounds, like a 9mm, can travel up to 3 miles. The effective range of a rifle is typically much shorter than the maximum range. For example, while a 5.56 round can travel over 2 miles, its effective range is around 800 yards in ideal conditions. Specialized sniper rifles, like those using the 12.7x114mm HL caliber, have been used to make kills at distances exceeding 2 miles (3,800 meters). 

Studies: Reports indicate there are several recorded deaths from falling bullet incidents. Studies on the subject have been well documented with one indicating a higher mortality rate from falling bullet injuries compared to typical gunshot wounds. A study conducted by King/Drew Medical Center in Los Angeles reported a 32% death rate among those treated for falling bullet injuries.

Worldwide, numerous incidents of death and injury from falling bullets have been reported, including a young girl killed on New Year's Day in Maryland in 2013 and multiple fatalities during celebrations in Iraq in 2007.

More details will be released as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, Winchester Police are urging the public to come forward with any information. If you or someone you know heard or saw a rifle being fired into the air in or around Winchester between 9:10 and 9:25 PM on Friday night, July 4, 2025, please contact Detective Ryan Fuller at 931-967-3840, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 931-962-INFO (4636).

Previous News Article: Winchester, TN - A 61-year-old Springfield, TN man has died after being struck in the head by a falling bullet while walking with family at Twin Creeks Marina on July 4, 2025. The victim, now identified by Winchester Police as John Cobb, collapsed unexpectedly on the boat ramp near River Watch Way shortly after 9PM.

Family members initially thought he had tripped and hit his head. But after being rushed to the hospital, medical staff discovered a bullet wound near the top of his skull. He later died from his injuries.

Investigators believe the bullet was fired into the air—possibly as part of a celebratory gunfire incident—and fell back to earth, fatally striking Cobb. The velocity of a falling bullet, though slower than a direct shot, is still strong enough to cause serious harm or death, particularly when impacting the head.

The case is now being treated as a homicide investigation. Winchester Police are urging the public to come forward with any information. If you or someone you know heard or saw a rifle being fired into the air in or around Winchester between 9:10 and 9:25 Friday night (7/4/2025) please contact Detective Ryan Fuller at 931-967-3840, or anonymously report through Crimestoppers at 931-962-INFO (4636).