15-Year-Old Boy Remains in ‘Extremely Critical’ Condition After Hickory Hill Shooting; Three Other Children Released, Police Say
A 15-year-old boy is fighting for his life after a shooting in the Hickory Hill neighborhood left four children injured, according to the Memphis Police Department (MPD).
The incident unfolded Tuesday evening when officers were called to the scene of a shooting involving multiple juveniles. Authorities say four children were struck by gunfire. While three of the victims were treated and released from the hospital, the 15-year-old boy remains hospitalized in “extremely critical” condition.
Police have not yet released the names of the victims, citing their age and the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation. Family members of the injured teens have gathered outside the hospital, where emotions remain raw as they await updates on the boy’s condition.
The Shooting
Details about what led up to the gunfire remain limited. MPD reported that the shooting occurred in the Hickory Hill area, a neighborhood that has seen a troubling uptick in violence affecting young people in recent years. Investigators have not said whether the shooting was targeted or random, nor have they identified any suspects.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunshots rang out, sending children and families scrambling for safety. One neighbor, who asked not to be identified, said, “It’s heartbreaking. These are kids, and this kind of violence shouldn’t be anywhere near them.”
MPD Response and Investigation
Police continue to canvas the area for evidence and are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They have not yet announced any arrests. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses in hopes of piecing together what happened.
In a brief update Wednesday, MPD confirmed:
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Three of the four injured juveniles have been released from the hospital.
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The 15-year-old remains in extremely critical condition.
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The investigation is active and ongoing.
Community Reaction
Community leaders and parents have voiced frustration and sorrow, pointing to a broader pattern of youth gun violence in Memphis. Advocates stress the urgent need for stronger intervention programs, conflict resolution resources, and safe spaces for children.
“This is not just about one shooting,” said a local pastor. “It’s about a community where our kids feel safe enough to play outside, go to school, and grow up without the fear of being shot.”
School officials in the area are reportedly working with counselors to provide emotional support for classmates of the victims.
Call for Information
MPD is urging anyone who may have information about the Hickory Hill shooting to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Tips can be given anonymously and could help bring justice to the victims and their families.
As the 15-year-old boy fights for his life, the Memphis community waits anxiously for updates, hoping for a recovery and for answers to how yet another tragedy involving children could have happened.
