Nashville, Tennessee — A 25-year-old woman was allegedly shot and killed by her girlfriend over the weekend, a tragedy that has left a family grieving and a community mourning the loss of a young woman described by loved ones as “such a light.”
Police say Gracey Adams, 25, was found dead inside a bedroom of a home on Kingview Drive on the morning of Saturday, January 3, according to the Nashville Police Department.
Victim found dead inside Nashville home
Officers responding to the residence discovered Adams with a fatal gunshot wound. Investigators immediately began searching for her girlfriend, Sarah Stacey, 29, who was initially identified as a person of interest in the shooting.
Authorities said Adams and Stacey were in a relationship and had been together at the residence prior to the incident. Police did not release details about what may have led up to the shooting.
Suspect allegedly implicated herself during interview
After a brief period at large, police said Stacey implicated herself during an interview with lead detective Cooper Gauldin, according to an update released by investigators.
Stacey was later located on Port Anadarko Trail and taken into custody on Sunday, January 4. She has since been charged with criminal homicide in connection with Adams’ death.
Police have not released additional details about the weapon involved or whether any prior domestic incidents had been reported.
Mother says she knew immediately
On Monday, January 5, Adams’ mother, Amy McClure, spoke publicly for the first time, recalling the devastating moment she learned her daughter had died.
“A chaplain called her father, and then he called me and told me,” McClure said. “And I knew immediately who did it. My heart shattered.”
McClure shared that her daughter had recently been working to rebuild her life and had spent meaningful time with family just days before her death.
Family cherishes final Christmas together
According to her mother, Adams had experienced a relapse earlier in 2025 but was sober on Christmas, making the family gathering especially meaningful.
“She got to see her nieces and nephews. Her father came to town. We all had pictures together. We all played games and spent time together,” McClure said.
She described the celebration as something deeply special.
“That was a gift from God,” she said. “That’s what makes this so hard. That was just last week.”
Despite the pain, McClure said she is grateful for those final moments.
“I’m just so glad that we got those happy memories. I’m so glad that we had that.”
Loved ones remember her as “a light”
Adams’ stepfather, Chip McClure, said her impact will continue long after her death.
“She was such a light,” he said. “She touched so many people that her legacy and that light are going to burn forever. I just know it in my heart.”
Her sister, Kathryn Nichole Adams, also shared a tribute, remembering Gracey’s deep love for her family.
“The depth of love you carried—for everyone, and especially for your nieces and nephews—is something that will be felt through the test of time,” she wrote.
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Family plans foundation in her name
In the wake of the tragedy, Adams’ family announced plans to create a foundation in her honor called Gracey Kayla Hope, aimed at supporting families affected by substance abuse.
They say the foundation will focus on helping others navigate recovery, grief, and healing—causes that were deeply personal to Gracey.
Case remains under investigation
Police say the investigation into Adams’ death is ongoing. Court records related to Stacey’s arrest and upcoming proceedings have not yet been made public.
Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the case moves forward.
Help is available
Adams’ family is encouraging anyone struggling with substance use to seek help.
If you or someone you know is dealing with addiction, support is available through the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP, which offers free and confidential assistance 24/7.
As Nashville continues to process the loss, loved ones say Gracey Adams will be remembered not for how her life ended, but for the love and light she brought to those around her.
What are your thoughts on how communities can better support people facing addiction and domestic violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
