DICKSON, Tenn. — The Dickson community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 17-year-old Taylor ShyAnn Ratterree, a teenager whose life was tragically cut short Tuesday night in a shooting police say was carried out by her ex-boyfriend.
According to the Dickson Police Department, Ratterree was picked up by her ex-boyfriend, 18-year-old Hunter Jackson, after leaving work around 8 p.m. As the two approached a traffic light on Henslee Drive, police said Ratterree attempted to jump out of the vehicle in an effort to escape. At that moment, investigators say Jackson shot her.
Officers responded to the scene and found Ratterree suffering from gunshot wounds. She was transported to Skyline Medical Center, where she later passed away from her injuries.
Friends, family members, and coworkers are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss. Hayla Skelton, a coworker and close friend, said she spoke with Taylor just moments before she left work that night.
“She has a beautiful personality. She’s very happy all the time. She never seems to have a dull moment,” Skelton said. That conversation would be the last time she saw her friend.
Ratterree’s family described her as a bright young woman with big dreams for the future. She was excited to begin college next year and had a passion for crochet, often making and selling handmade items, including small bumblebee creations, to coworkers.
In a city that has seen one homicide per year for the past three years, community members say her death has shaken them deeply and serves as a sobering reminder about relationship safety and awareness.
Hunter Jackson has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently being held on a $3 million bond.
Taylor ShyAnn Ratterree’s life, joy, and future will not be forgotten by those who loved her.