NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The son of Metro Nashville's police chief, John Drake Jr., who was accused of shooting two La Vergne police officers, has been found dead in the Edgehill community. His mother, Veleria East, confirmed that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) will be conducting an investigation into Drake's death at the request of District Attorney Glenn Funk. A comprehensive autopsy will also be performed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Authorities had been searching for Drake, aged 38, since Saturday, when two officers were shot and wounded outside a Dollar General store in La Vergne, a city located approximately 20 miles southeast of Nashville.

According to Metro Nashville Police spokesman Don Aaron, Drake had stolen a car at gunpoint from a residence southeast of downtown on Tuesday night. He approached a man and woman in front of a house, requesting a ride. When they were unable to assist him, Drake brandished a gun and demanded their car.

Shortly after, officers spotted the stolen vehicle and pursued it to the Edgehill area south of downtown, where it ultimately crashed. Drake fled towards a shed behind a residence, and as officers surrounded the area, a single gunshot was heard.

Drake, who had been wanted on two counts of attempted first-degree murder, was the estranged son of Metro Nashville Police Department Chief John Drake. The chief released a statement on Saturday, confirming that his son was indeed the suspect in the shooting. He also revealed that their relationship had been strained for some time and that his son had a history of criminal activity and prior felony convictions.

The two injured officers, identified as Ashely Boleyjack and Gregory Kern, were investigating a stolen vehicle outside the Dollar General store when they encountered the suspect. A struggle ensued, during which Drake produced a handgun and shot them. Fortunately, both officers received treatment at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and have since been released.

La Vergne Police Chief Christopher Moews expressed gratitude to all the officers involved in the pursuit on Tuesday night, acknowledging their unwavering dedication to resolving the case. He also extended heartfelt prayers to Chief Drake and his family during this difficult time.

As the investigation into the shooting and Drake's death continues, authorities hope to gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded and the motives behind his actions.