MEMPHIS, TN – Two individuals are currently in custody after a fatal shooting that took the life of an employee of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The incident occurred on Sunday night near Tom Lee Park in downtown Memphis.
32-year-old Alexander Bulakhov was on an evening walk with his wife and their 2-year-old child when they were approached by an individual wielding a gun. According to the police, the armed suspect was wearing a ski mask and demanded the family’s possessions. Bulakhov handed over his wallet before the assailant targeted his wife.
While attempting to protect his wife, a struggle ensued between Bulakhov and the gunman, where Bulakhov was shot. He was immediately rushed to Regional One Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The suspects fled the scene in a white Toyota Camry, local resident Jacob McLemore explained. McLemore, who usually walks with his young son in the nearby Butler Park, said the murder happened rapidly.
In a heartbreaking twist, Bulakhov had immigrated to Memphis to contribute to the life-saving work at St. Jude. McLemore mourned the loss, emphasizing the shocking nature of the incident and its impact on the community’s sense of security.
On Monday, investigators located the white Camry in the vicinity of Whitney Avenue and Steele Street, leading to the arrest of 23-year-old Marious Ward and 22-year-old Brandy Rucker. Following further investigations, both suspects face several charges, including first-degree murder, first-degree murder committed during a robbery, especially aggravated robbery, attempted first-degree murder, and employing a firearm during a dangerous felony.
Both Ward and Rucker are set to appear in court on Wednesday. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital expressed deep sorrow over Bulakhov’s death, conveying their thoughts and prayers for the grieving family.