Family of Dr. Alyssa Lockett urges committee to pass safety-planning bill for parks and greenways

Sen. Yarbrough said the Alyssa Lockett Safety Act would require parks and greenways across Tennessee to adopt safety plans to reduce risks in public spaces.

Family members who identified themselves as Abby and Sean Lockett described the October 14, 2024 attack on Dr. Alyssa Lockett on the Mill Creek Greenway in Davidson County and urged the committee to act. “Our grief fueled us to act, to create measurable lasting change,” Abby Lockett said, asking lawmakers to prioritize public safety in green spaces.

Sean Lockett told the committee he was speaking on behalf of his family and noted the fiscal cost of violent crime. “Alyssa’s murder cost taxpayers upwards of $2,000,000,” he said, arguing the proposed statewide safety plans could prevent future tragedies and reduce those costs.

Sen. Yarbrough framed the bill as a commonsense step to ensure parks and greenways have intentional design and response plans. After brief questions, the committee voted to move SB 1247 to the finance committee; the clerk reported nine ayes and the motion passed.

Next steps: SB 1247 will be considered by the Senate Finance Committee; the sponsor asked for favorable consideration from this committee.