Memphis, Tennessee – Tragedy struck early Friday morning in Memphis as an exchange of gunfire resulted in the death of a Memphis Police officer and an 18-year-old suspect. Interim Police Chief C.J. Davis confirmed the devastating news, indicating that two other officers and another suspect were also wounded during the incident.
The fallen officer was later identified as Joseph McKinney by MPD, while the suspect killed was unofficially identified as Jaylen Lobley by an inside source. Two other officers were injured, with one in non-critical condition after being hospitalized and the third officer treated at the scene for a minor gunshot wound. Additionally, a 17-year-old suspect sustained critical injuries.
The tragic altercation took place at the intersection of Hewlett Road and Horn Lake Road in Southwest Memphis. According to Memphis Police, the shooting unfolded after officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle. As officers approached the vehicle, a suspect opened fire, prompting the officers to return fire. The stolen vehicle used in the incident was later found on Hewlett Road, resulting in the capture of one suspect and the apprehension of another fleeing the scene.
Davis revealed that the 18-year-old suspect had a history of arrests, notably in March when he was apprehended with a stolen vehicle and an illegally modified semi-automatic weapon. Despite facing charges related to stolen vehicles and theft tools, he was released without bond.
In the wake of the tragedy, the District Attorney and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation have been called upon to lead the investigation. This incident adds to the concerning trend of violence gripping Memphis, with the city reporting 101 homicides thus far this year, closely trailing last year’s numbers. Mayor Paul Young emphasized the urgent need for community action to combat the escalating violence, calling on everyone to play their part in reversing the trend.