Steven Lamont Phillips, 56, of Nashville, Tennessee, was charged yesterday with possession of a weapon by a previously convicted felon following the death of his son, according to a statement from United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department responded to a shooting at a Nashville residence on March 28, 2026.

Upon arrival, officers located Phillips’ six-year-old son, identified as S.R., who was unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the head.

The Nashville Fire Department transported the child to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

According to police reports, Phillips waived his Miranda rights and stated he discovered a firearm outside on the morning of the incident.

Phillips told officers he placed the weapon in his pocket and returned indoors to play with S.R.

The defendant stated he fell asleep on the living room floor and was awakened by the sound of a gunshot and a muzzle flash.

At the time of the incident, Phillips possessed a Kel-Tec CNC Inc. model P3AT .380 auto caliber pistol.

Records indicate Phillips is a convicted felon with prior convictions in Davidson County Criminal Court for aggravated robbery, possession of a weapon by a previously convicted felon, and attempted theft.

Phillips is currently on probation for a state felony conviction of attempted theft between $10,000 and $60,000.

“The possession of firearms by convicted felons is inherently dangerous,” said United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek. “This tragic outcome could have been avoided by simply following the law. Our office will hold felons accountable when they possess firearms…”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case alongside the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorney Cooper R. Byers is leading the prosecution.

If convicted, Phillips faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.