A community in Nashville is reeling after the loss of a much-loved teacher. Anna Pierce was shot and killed by her husband who then turned the gun on himself. Police are currently considering the incident an apparent murder-suicide. People close to Amina “Anna” Pierce said she was a mom herself. Information about the couple’s children and their whereabouts aren’t available. Now, the work community that loved Anna Pierce is gathering to pay tribute to someone who meant a lot to many people.
A press release from the Metro Nashville Police Department said 30-year-old Amina “Anna” Pierce was found dead at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 15, 2025. She was found alongside her husband, 46-year-old Steven Pierce. According to police, a revolver was found under Steven Pierce. He fatally shot his wife after arguing about “divorce and financial issues,” the investigation showed.
The Metro Nashville Domestic Violence Division had no prior dealings with the couple.
Anna Pierce was a biology teacher and tennis coach at Hunters Lane High School. The Metro Nashville School District released a statement shortly after her death. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Amina ‘Anna’ Darbashi Pierce, a beloved biology teacher and tennis coach at Hunters Lane High School,” the district wrote. “Our thoughts go out to her family and the Hunters Lane school community.”
The Tennessean reported on the incident, sharing a message from Hunters Lane High School Executive Principal Sue Kessler. According to Kessler, Anna Pierce had recently finished her seventh year of teaching.
“She enjoyed teaching biology and 9th graders because she was convinced that the relationships she built with students would help them through graduation and beyond,” Kessler added. “She was one of the tennis coaches and worked tirelessly to increase the number of tennis players at our school.”
Additionally, Kessler shared that Pierce was working on becoming a principal herself.
“A devoted mother of two girls, Ms. Pierce helped other teachers as they learned to navigate the mom-teacher balance,” Kessler noted. “We will miss Ms. Pierce’s commitment to kids, love of our school and her dedication. Our thoughts are with the many people who loved her.”
Authorities have not released any information about the couple’s children at this time.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
