Tennessee Man Accused of Nearly Shooting 1-Year-Old for Sledding on Property He Wrongly Claimed Was His: Police

A Tennessee man is behind bars for allegedly shooting at a family sledding near his home, an area he wrongly claimed as his property.

The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office arrested 56-year-old Benjamin Cook soon after the incident Friday in Harrison, Tennessee. Cook now faces multiple felony charges, including six counts of attempted first-degree murder.

The confrontation unfolded around 11:30 a.m. in a quiet neighborhood on Stoney River Drive, where the family of six, including four children, gathered to enjoy a snow day. Parents told police gunshots rang out as they went sledding downhill. Startled, the mother noticed snow spraying up just feet away from her 1-year-old, as reported by WSMV.

The parents yelled for Cook to stop shooting, according to police. Cook allegedly claimed the family was trespassing on his land. The parents, however, disputed the accusation, packed up, and immediately contacted authorities.

Deputies responding to the scene questioned Cook and reviewed photo evidence provided by a neighbor. The images show Cook carrying a rifle through nearby woods while wearing the same clothes police interviewed him in.

A later search of his home uncovered multiple firearms. Further investigation determined the family was never on Cook's property.

On Monday, police announced Cook faces extensive charges: six counts of attempted first-degree murder, four counts of aggravated child abuse, two counts of unlawful firearm possession, possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Cook remains in custody at the Hamilton County Jail, with bond set at $10,000. His first court appearance is scheduled February 10.