09/19/2025
Jury Finds McClean Guilty of First-Degree Murder and 3 Counts of Aggravated Robbery in Cedar Creek Marina Case
Wilson County Sheriff Robert Bryan announced that 41-year-old Adrian A. McClean has been found guilty of first-degree murder, a conviction that carries a life sentence, along with three counts of aggravated robbery in connection with the June 29, 2024, robbery and homicide at Cedar Creek Marina and Restaurant. Sentencing on the robbery charges has been scheduled for January 9, 2026.
Near midnight on June 29, 2024, Wilson County deputies and Mt. Juliet Police officers responded to a reported armed robbery at Cedar Creek Marina and Restaurant, located at 9120 Saundersville Road. Armed suspects ambushed restaurant staff, assaulting two employees and forcing them to open the cash safe. Both staff members were treated and released at the scene.
As the suspects fled the business, 27-year-old Bailey Gardner of Kansas, who had no connection to the suspects or the robbery, was shot and killed in the parking lot. Despite life-saving efforts by officers and paramedics, Gardner tragically passed away from his injuries.
Following an intensive joint investigation, McLean was arrested in Nashville with the assistance of Metro Nashville Police Department’s S.W.A.T. and Homicide Unit. Investigators later confirmed McLean’s citizenship status had expired prior to the incident.
Sheriff Robert Bryan stated:
“This guilty verdict delivers a measure of justice for the Gardner family and sends a strong message that acts of violence in Wilson County will not be tolerated. I am grateful for the tireless work of our investigators and the partnerships with our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Their dedication was instrumental in securing this outcome.”
The Wilson County Sheriff’s Office continues to pursue two additional suspects who remain at large in this case. A $15,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the successful arrest and prosecution of these individuals. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (615) 444-1459 or submit a tip through our anonymous channels.
The Sheriff’s Office extends special thanks to the Mt. Juliet Police Department, Metro Nashville Police Department Homicide Unit and S.W.A.T., the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the District Attorney General’s Office for their assistance throughout the investigation and trial process.
Our deepest condolences remain with the family and friends of Bailey Gardner. We remain committed to ensuring justice is fully served.