Dalton Eatherly, the controversial livestreamer known online as “Chud the Builder,” suffered a major setback in court on June 17 after a Tennessee judge revoked his bond in a separate misdemeanor case. The decision came during a Davidson County hearing where investigators presented footage that allegedly shows Eatherly firing at Joshua Fox before he was physically attacked. The evidence directly challenges Eatherly’s claim that he acted in self-defense during the May 2026 shooting outside the Montgomery County Courthouse in Clarksville.
Chud the Builder ’s self-defense claim faces scrutiny after investigators present new footage
The court hearing gained attention after AkademiksTV shared footage from the proceedings on X. According to the post, investigators showed surveillance video that allegedly captured Eatherly shooting Joshua Fox before any physical attack occurred.The footage relates to the May 13 shooting outside the Montgomery County Courthouse. Fox, a disabled veteran and father of three, was at the courthouse with his wife for a child support hearing when the confrontation happened.Investigators say Eatherly approached Fox and a verbal argument followed. Court testimony states that Eatherly briefly walked away before turning back toward Fox. Prosecutors argue that he then reached for his firearm, escalating the situation. A fight followed, and multiple shots were fired.Authorities recovered seven shell casings from the scene. Fox was struck several times and underwent emergency surgery. Eatherly also suffered a gunshot wound to his arm during the struggle.
Judge Melissa Blackburn revokes Chud the Builder’s bond amid new charges and courtroom evidence
The June 17 hearing was tied to misdemeanor charges Eatherly already faced in Davidson County, including a theft-related case. He had been released on a $1,000 bond with conditions that included avoiding any new arrests.Those conditions were violated after his arrest in the Clarksville shooting case. Eatherly is currently facing serious felony charges, including attempted murder, employing a firearm during a dangerous felony, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment.According to reports from the hearing, Judge Melissa Blackburn cited Eatherly’s conduct and online activity while deciding to revoke the bond. She reportedly said the decision was based on “what I’ve seen on social media and Mr. Eatherly’s behavior.”The bond revocation means Eatherly remains in custody even as the larger Montgomery County case continues. Prosecutors maintain that the surveillance footage weakens his self-defense argument, while the final determination of guilt or innocence will be made during future court proceedings.
