Nashville police search for woman after another woman fatally shot after July 4 fight

Nashville police are searching for a woman after another woman was fatally shot Saturday night after an altercation at a July 4 birthday party.

Police are searching for Darlene R. Knight, 48, of Nashville, who is charged with criminal homicide in the killing of Latonia Johnson, 50, in Madison.

Johnson was shot and killed at 9:45 p.m. in the parking lot of Rothwood Apartments on Rothwood Avenue, the second deadly shooting on Independence Day night in Nashville, and just 20 minutes after another apparently unrelated one elsewhere in the city.

According to police, the women attended a birthday party held at the apartment complex and while there got into a fist fight.

Knight left in a vehicle, but returned as Johnson was in the parking lot preparing to leave, police said.

Witnesses told police Knight exited her car holding a pistol and pointed it at Johnson. Police believe Johnson then charged toward Knight, at which time Knight fired the gun, striking Johnson.

She died at the scene. Police say Knight fled before officers arrived.

Police obtained an arrest warrant for Knight, who was last known to have lived on Elizabeth Road. Anyone who sees her or has information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. 

Callers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.

Reach Natalie Allison at nallison@tennessean.com. Follow her on Twitter at @natalie_allison.