Man Convicted of Murdering Ex-Girlfriend's New Boyfriend in Montgomery County

John Bean found guilty of first-degree murder and other charges in shooting death

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:54pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun magazine on a black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing a key piece of evidence in a violent crime.A stark, gritty image of a critical piece of evidence in a tragic case of domestic violence.Today in Nashville

A man in Montgomery County, Tennessee has been convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend. John Bean was found guilty of first-degree murder, felony murder, attempted electronic tracking, especially aggravated burglary, aggravated assault, employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and theft.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for stronger laws and support systems to protect victims from their abusers. It also raises questions about the role of technology, such as electronic tracking, in domestic disputes and the responsibility of individuals to refrain from violence even after a relationship ends.

The details

Prosecutors proved that Bean broke into his ex-girlfriend's Montgomery County home in the middle of the night, where he shot and killed her new boyfriend. Bean then stole the couple's cell phones and car keys before fleeing to Nashville, where he discarded the evidence along the highway. Police were able to recover the ex-girlfriend's phone and the murder weapon, both of which contained DNA evidence linking Bean to the crime.

  • The murder occurred in the middle of the night at the ex-girlfriend's Montgomery County home.
  • Bean was detained shortly after the incident.
  • Police recovered the evidence along the highway in Nashville.

The players

John Bean

The man convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend.

Robert Nash

The 19th Judicial District Attorney General who prosecuted the case.

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What they’re saying

“The prosecution proved that Bean broke into his ex-girlfriend's Montgomery County home in the middle of the night, where he shot and killed her new boyfriend.”

— Robert Nash, 19th Judicial District Attorney General

What’s next

Bean will be sentenced for his crimes at a later date.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for stronger domestic violence prevention and intervention measures to protect victims and hold abusers accountable for their actions, even after a relationship has ended.