NASHVILLE, TN — June 15, 2025 — A respected high school teacher and mother of two was tragically killed in an apparent murder-suicide early Sunday morning in Nashville, leaving a tight-knit school community heartbroken and searching for answers. Metro Nashville Police confirmed that 30-year-old Amina Anna Darbashi Pierce and her husband, 46-year-old Steven Pierce, were both found dead inside their condominium on 31st Avenue North.
According to authorities, the incident occurred just after 8:30 a.m. Police say Steven Pierce shot and killed his wife before turning the gun on himself. A revolver was found at the scene beneath Steven’s body. Investigators believe the tragedy was the result of ongoing marital stress, including recent arguments over divorce and financial troubles. The couple’s two young daughters were unharmed and are currently staying with family members.
Amina Pierce, known to students as Ms. Pierce, taught biology at Hunters Lane High School for seven years and also served as a tennis coach. She was admired for her passion for science and her deep commitment to helping students succeed. Principal Sue Kessler said Amina was known for building strong relationships with her 9th-grade students and inspiring fellow educators. “She was working toward becoming a principal and mentored other teachers who were also balancing parenthood and teaching,” Kessler said.
The school district, Metro Nashville Public Schools, released a statement expressing sorrow and describing Amina as a beloved and dedicated educator. “Her loss will be deeply felt by her students, coworkers, and the entire MNPS community,” the statement read. Counselors have been made available to support students and staff at Hunters Lane as they process the tragedy.
Steven Pierce was a Nashville native with a background in higher education from several institutions, including Belmont University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Friends say he had become more withdrawn in recent years, and those close to the couple noted rising tension in their marriage. Authorities are continuing to investigate, though no other suspects are involved.
Plans for a memorial service to honor Amina’s life are underway, organized by her colleagues and students. Loved ones are asking for privacy during this difficult time but have welcomed prayers and support. Anyone struggling with domestic violence or emotional distress is urged to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
