Tennessee Man Shot in Head While Defending Sister From Her Samurai Sword-Wielding Ex, Cops Say
David Smith arrested after allegedly shooting his ex's brother in the head during altercation involving samurai sword.
Sept. 22 2023, Published 12:00 p.m. ET
A man in Tennessee was allegedly shot in the head while he was protecting his sister from her samurai sword-carrying ex-boyfriend, RadarOnline.com has learned.
On Sept. 17, David J. Smith, 43, arrived at the home of his former girlfriend in Chattanooga and accused her of sleeping with other men, as Front Page Detectives reported.
The ex-girlfriend told police that Smith had been drinking that night and has a history of violence.
When speaking with police, the woman said Smith had been drinking and has a history of being violent.
Smith left the house, but he returned a little while later allegedly armed with a samurai sword, WTVC reported.
The woman's brother arrived at the scene with a gun when trying to protect his sister.
“Mr. Smith grabbed her by the throat," court documents state. "He then told her if she’s not going to be with him, then she’s not going to be with anyone.”
The woman called for help, and her brother, Trevor Bennett, arrived with a gun and told Smith to let go of his sister, WTVC reported.
Jessica Cavallaro reportedly called 911 to report she had shot her parents, officials said.
The woman’s young son also heard the fighting taking place, and came to check what was happening.
Police questioned the boy, who they say claimed Bennett pushed Smith out the front door and then stopped to help his mother.
Bennett was transported to the hospital and his father said he is recovering after surgery.
Court documents show the boy allegedly also said, “When he got outside he saw David [Smith] on his back, just a few feet away, shoot Trevor [Bennett] in the head, who was standing over him."
Smith then fled the scene, officials said. When police arrived, they found Bennett in the driveway and he was transported to a nearby hospital.
Never miss a story — sign up for the RadarOnline.com newsletter to get your daily dose of dope. Daily. Breaking. Celebrity news. All free.
Never Miss an
Daily updates from the heart of Hollywood, right to your inbox
By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Powered by RedCircle
On Sept. 18, police were able to track down Smith and he was arrested and charged with attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault and aggravated burglary, authorities said.
Tracy Bennett, Trevor’s father, said his son is recovering after surgery, but doctors say a full recovery could take up to a year, WTVC reported.
