MEMPHIS, TN – A deadly incident unfolded early Monday morning as a homeowner was shot and killed while confronting suspects outside his Southeast Shelby County residence. Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies rushed to the scene on Cutter Mill Road following a report of a shooting just before 3 a.m.
The victim, identified as 48-year-old Fernando Jones, was taken to St. Francis Hospital in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries later.
Authorities revealed that Jones had observed individuals attempting to break into a car parked in his driveway. In an effort to stop the crime, he opened his door and shouted at the would-be burglars, prompting them to shoot multiple times.
A nearby resident, awakened by the sound of gunfire, recounted the harrowing experience. “I heard a loud boom,” she said, “and when I looked out nearly two minutes later, I saw Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies arriving.”
The suspects fled the scene, and the sheriff’s office has released an image of the car believed to be involved in the getaway.
Authorities are on the lookout for a white Honda Accord characterized by black mirrors and an antenna located above the back glass.
Anyone who recognizes or spots the vehicle should reach out to Crime Stoppers. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks any information that could lead to the identification and capture of those responsible for the tragic shooting.