Trace Adkins Reflects on the 1994 Shooting by His Ex-Wife

Appearing on Theo Von’s “This Past Weekend” podcast, the 64-year-old musician recalled the 1994 confrontation, which escalated after he refused to leave their home during an argument about his drinking. Adkins characterized the shooting as an impulsive act born of ignorance rather than malice, suggesting that Curtis treated the firearm as if it were a toy. He maintains that she had no prior experience with guns and likely did not grasp the lethal potential of the weapon when she pulled the trigger.

The bullet traveled through his heart and both lungs before exiting his right arm, necessitating emergency open-heart surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Adkins credits his survival to the proximity of the shot, which he claims prevented the bullet from expanding and causing further internal trauma. Despite the severity of the injuries, he chose not to pursue legal action, citing a lack of intent on her part and a personal refusal to harbor lingering resentment. While the physical recovery was grueling, Adkins noted that the emotional toll of his subsequent life experiences has left a more significant mark than the shooting itself.