MEMPHIS, TN – In Memphis, Tennessee, a murder suspect’s evasion from authorities came to an abrupt halt when he plummeted through a ceiling during a U.S. Marshals operation. Deario Wilkerson, 20, had been eluding law enforcement since an arrest warrant was issued for him in early May.
The warrant was in connection to the death of Troy Cunningham, who was shot and killed in early April. After several unsuccessful attempts to locate Wilkerson, the U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force joined in the pursuit.
On August 26, the task force tracked down Wilkerson at a Memphis residence very close to the crime scene. The house was surrounded by deputy marshals, along with local law enforcement agencies. During the ensuing search, Wilkerson sought refuge in the attic. However, he lost his footing and plunged through the ceiling, giving the authorities a surprise catch.
The Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force was formed as a collaborative effort by various law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Marshals, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents, Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton County Sheriff’s Deputies. They have accomplished over 2,600 captures of violent fugitives and sex offenders since 2021.
Wilkerson, unharmed by the fall, was arrested without any further trouble.