Tragic Shooting at Tom Lee Park in Memphis Claims One Life, Sparks Ongoing Investigation
MEMPHIS, TN — A peaceful Sunday evening at Tom Lee Park in downtown Memphis turned into a scene of chaos and heartbreak after a fatal shooting left one man dead and dozens of families and parkgoers traumatized.
The incident occurred near the playground area along the scenic River Walk, a popular destination where locals and visitors gather to relax by the Mississippi River. The shooting happened just before sunset on April 13, transforming the tranquil space into an active crime scene.
Victim Identified, Community in Shock
According to initial reports from the Memphis Police Department (MPD), a Black male was found at the scene with multiple gunshot wounds to the head and face. Despite emergency response efforts, the victim was pronounced dead on-site. His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
“This is devastating,” said one witness. “We were just enjoying the sunset, and all of a sudden we heard gunfire — just boom, boom, boom. Everyone started running. Kids were crying, people were ducking for cover. It was chaos.”
Parkgoers Scramble for Safety
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic as families with children, joggers, and groups of friends scattered for safety. Several individuals reported hearing multiple shots, with some estimating between five to ten rounds fired.
“Parents were pulling their kids off the swings and diving behind benches. I saw someone drop to the ground and just stay there. It was like something out of a nightmare,” another witness shared.
The area surrounding the playground and nearby walking path was immediately cordoned off with crime scene tape as MPD officers and homicide detectives began processing the scene. Forensic teams were seen photographing shell casings and marking key locations.
Police Response and Investigation
The Memphis Police Department responded with a heightened presence, deploying patrol units, plainclothes detectives, and aerial surveillance as they began canvassing the area. K-9 units were also spotted assisting in the search for potential suspects.
In a preliminary statement, MPD confirmed they are following leads and have “eyes on potential suspects.” Officers are reviewing park surveillance cameras and working with witness statements to identify those involved in the shooting.
However, no arrests have been made as of late Sunday evening, and no suspect descriptions have been formally released to the public.
A Troubling Pattern
This latest incident adds to a growing concern about public safety in Memphis, particularly in areas meant for families and recreation. Tom Lee Park, recently renovated and reopened with great fanfare, was envisioned as a safe and inclusive space for the entire city. Sunday’s violence has cast a shadow over that vision.
“This is unacceptable,” said a local resident who frequently visits the park with her grandchildren. “This should be a place where people feel safe, not where they have to fear for their lives. Something has to change.”
Community Response and Next Steps
City officials and community leaders are expected to address the incident in the coming days. In the meantime, counseling resources are being made available for individuals and families who were at the park during the shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone who was in the area or who may have video or photographic evidence of the shooting to come forward. Witness cooperation will be critical in helping identify those responsible and bringing them to justice.
How You Can Help
If you have any information related to the shooting at Tom Lee Park, you are urged to contact the Memphis Police Department or call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Tips can remain anonymous.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the life lost in what should have been a peaceful evening on the river. The memory of this tragic moment will not soon be forgotten, and many are calling for renewed efforts to address gun violence and restore safety in public spaces.