Former Palm Beach Gardens middle school teacher Corey Perry, who shot himself in a Nashville hotel room today, has died, confirmed the FBI.
A federal arrest warrant was issued March 28 for Perry, 33, for the production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and enticement.
Officials responded to a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the Delux Inn hotel at 3:40 p.m. Friday. The FBI suspected that Perry might be in Nashville, where he has relatives.
Officials said FBI agents found Perry wounded as they arrived at the hotel to arrest him. Perry was pronounced dead at Skyline Medical Center,
Metro Nashville Police Department is investigating the apparent suicide,
The FBI released the following statement:
During the investigation of this matter in the Nashville, TN, area this afternoon, FBI agents approached an individual for questioning when the individual took his own life. No law enforcement personnel were injured. Until local authorities make a positive identification of the deceased and notify next of kin, no further information is available.
Earlier this week, the FBI posted a reward up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the former H.L. Watkins Middle School teacher and coach.
He was last seen in Fort Lauderdale on March 26 around 2:45 p.m., according to the FBI.
His rental vehicle was found in Fort Lauderdale with the doors unlocked and the keys in the ignition on April 7, the FBI said.
Perry was a teacher and coached basketball at H. L. Watkins Middle School in Palm Beach Gardens. He also is credited with launching the Robotics and Engineering Academy at the school where he was even recognized by the governor for his efforts.
Palm Beach County School District Superintendent Robert Avossa tweeted in response to the news of Perry's suicide Friday evening. "Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this incident. I'm sure the facts will be brought to life soon."
Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this incident - I'm sure the facts will be brought to life soon.... https://t.co/BUG71Jjo9p
— Robert Avossa (@Supt_Avossa) April 15, 2017
BREAKING: Fugitive Corey Perry, wanted in South FL on federal child porn charges, has died from apparent self-inflicted gunshot to the head. pic.twitter.com/J9TzKKkBtj
— Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) April 14, 2017
Perry was pronounced dead at Skyline Medical Ctr. MNPD is investigating the apparent suicide.
— Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) April 14, 2017
FBI agents found Perry wounded as they arrived at the Delux Inn on Dickerson Pk to arrest the former FL school teacher.
— Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) April 14, 2017
