18-Year-Old Killed in Cordova Parking Lot Shooting, Investigation Underway
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide after an 18-year-old man was found shot to death Friday evening in Cordova.
According to authorities, deputies were dispatched around 5:40 p.m. to the 1900 block of Berryhill Road, near the intersection with Chimneyrock Boulevard, after receiving reports of an unresponsive person inside a vehicle.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered 18-year-old Antonio Sykes, Jr. inside a parked car. Paramedics with Shelby County Fire also responded and confirmed that Sykes had suffered a gunshot wound. Despite efforts at the scene, he was pronounced dead.
The parking lot, typically busy with evening traffic, quickly became a crime scene as deputies secured the area and began their investigation. Witnesses reported seeing multiple law enforcement vehicles and yellow crime scene tape blocking off sections of the lot as officers canvassed the area for evidence and potential surveillance footage.
At this time, investigators have not released information regarding a possible motive, nor have they identified any suspects. Authorities confirmed that no arrests have been made and are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
The death of Sykes marks another tragic loss in Shelby County, where concerns about violent crime continue to weigh heavily on residents. Community members who live near the scene expressed both sadness and frustration, noting that violence involving young people has become all too common.
Sheriff’s officials say they are working diligently to piece together what led to the deadly incident. Detectives are reviewing security footage from nearby businesses and interviewing potential witnesses in hopes of developing leads.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office released a statement urging cooperation from the public:
“This investigation is ongoing. We encourage anyone who may have seen or heard something in the area of Berryhill Road around the time of the shooting to contact our office. Even the smallest piece of information could help us bring justice for the victim and his family.”
Loved ones of Antonio Sykes, Jr. are now left to grieve the sudden and violent loss of the young man. Social media posts from friends and family describe him as a kindhearted teenager whose life ended far too soon.
Residents in the Cordova area say they hope authorities will step up patrols in the community and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office asks anyone with information about the shooting to call (901) 222-5600 or CrimeStoppers at (901) 528-CASH. Tips can be provided anonymously.
