James Shaw Jr. facts for kids

James Shaw Jr. is an American electrical technician. He is known for his bravery during the 2018 Nashville Waffle House shooting. He took a weapon away from a gunman, which helped save many lives. This event happened in Antioch, Tennessee.

Early Life and Education

James Shaw Jr. was born and grew up in Nashville, Tennessee. He went to Hunters Lane High School. Later, he graduated from Tennessee State University. James Shaw Jr. has one daughter.

Career Path

James Shaw Jr. started working with electricity when he was 18 years old. He once said that he loved taking things apart and putting them back together. After finishing college, he began working at AT&T. There, he installs internet, TV, and phone services in homes. He also runs his own company, called Imount Electric.

Brave Actions at Waffle House

On April 22, 2018, James Shaw Jr. and his friend were at a Waffle House restaurant. It was around 3 in the morning. Suddenly, he heard loud noises and glass breaking. At first, he thought it was just dishes. But after more loud sounds, he realized they were gunshots.

When the shooting began, James Shaw Jr. saw someone on the ground. He and his friend ran towards the restroom for safety. A bullet slightly grazed his elbow. He realized there was no way to escape or lock the door.

Then, James Shaw Jr. saw the gunman look down at his weapon. It seemed like the gunman was reloading or fixing something. This was his chance! James Shaw Jr. quickly rushed forward. He wrestled the weapon away from the gunman. He then threw it over the counter. He burned his hand while grabbing the hot weapon barrel. The two struggled for a moment. After that, the gunman ran away. Police caught the gunman about a day later.

Four people sadly died in the attack. However, many believe James Shaw Jr.'s actions saved more people. After the event, he started a GoFundMe page. He wanted to raise money for the families of the victims. He raised over $200,000 for them. Many people, including officials in Tennessee, called him a hero. But James Shaw Jr. said he doesn't see himself that way. He explained that he acted to save himself, but in doing so, he also saved others.

Awards and Special Recognitions

James Shaw Jr. has received many honors for his bravery. The president of Tennessee State University praised him for his courage. Lawmakers in Tennessee also honored him. He appeared on national TV shows. He was even honored at a game for the Nashville Predators hockey team.

He also met famous people. He appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and met NBA star Dwyane Wade. The Steve Harvey Show sent him on a trip to Barbados. Waffle House also said they would do something special for him.

In May 2018, James Shaw Jr. met X González. X González is a survivor of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. She is also an activist against gun violence. She had called James Shaw Jr. her hero. They met for brunch with other survivors and activists. Tennessee State University also created a scholarship fund in his name.

At the 2018 MTV Movie & TV Awards, actor Chadwick Boseman won an award for "Best Hero." He won for his role in the movie Black Panther. But Chadwick Boseman said real-life heroes are even greater. He called James Shaw Jr. to the stage and gave him the award. He said the award should live at James Shaw Jr.'s house. James Shaw Jr. also received a Gold Vail Award from the CEO of AT&T. In 2018, he received a BET Humanitarian Award.

In 2019, James Shaw Jr. played in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. He was an "Hometown Hero" and played very well. Also in 2019, he showed interest in running for mayor of Nashville. He received the Special Courage Award from the United States Department of Justice that same year.

See also

• Glendon Oakley Jr.