MEMPHIS, TN – A recent shooting incident, in which two individuals were injured, has caused a stir within the local community. The episode transpired early Saturday morning while the victims were stationed in a parking lot of a community center located at 810 Western Park Drive.
Upon arrival, officers noted a black 2024 Toyota Rav4, presenting a shot-out rear window on the driver’s side. The vehicle had crashed into a tree. Inside, they found two victims; the driver had sustained a gunshot wound to the back of his head, and the passenger attempted to apply pressure on the driver’s injury.
Both individuals recounted pulling into the parking lot of the Westwood Community Center to unwind. However, upon seeing a silver SUV, possibly a Jeep, they decided to vacate the premises. A heavyset man emerged from the vehicle, brandishing an assault weapon and cautioned them to remain still. As they attempted to escape the situation, the suspect fired at the victims, subsequently hitting one in the head.
An RTCC officer was able to provide video footage of the incident, which confirms the victims’ report and indicates the victims were in the parking lot for a mere 20 seconds before the assailant’s SUV entered the premises.
One of the victims was transported to Regional One hospital in critical condition, while the other was taken to Methodist South, with their condition deemed non-critical. On the scene, officials discovered five 300 blackout shell casings.
Memphis residents urged for peace in their community in the wake of the incident. Mary Bain, a long-time volunteer at the Westwood community center, expressed her devastation and called for an end to violence. She plans to resume her volunteering work on Monday, believing that introducing positivity into the city could help counteract the crime.
Authorities have encouraged any individuals with information on the incident to contact CrimeStoppers.