Memphis Police Chief Considers Federal Charges in Deadly Orange Mound Park Shooting

On April 22, 2023, a fatal mass shooting occurred at Orange Mound Park in Memphis, Tennessee, leaving two people dead and seven others injured, mostly teenagers. The Memphis Police Chief, CJ Davis, is considering federal charges for the incident and is working to identify the suspects from circulated videos showing AR-style weapons.

The shooting took place during an unauthorized block party at the park on Saturday evening, with several hundred people in attendance. Participants were seen in videos holding AR-style weapons. The police chief stated that the type of weaponry and activity seen in the park is unacceptable, and they are utilizing resources from federal partners like the FBI and ATF to support the investigation.

The victims of the shooting were a 17-year-old boy and a 22-year-old man. The seven other victims ranged in age from 16 to 29. As of April 23, no arrests had been announced in relation to the shootings.

Why this matters: The Orange Mound Park shooting is the latest in a series of gun violence incidents that have shaken Memphis and raised concerns about public safety. The involvement of federal authorities and the consideration of federal charges underscore the severity of the crime and the need for a comprehensive response to address the issue of gun violence in the community.

The shooting has left the Orange Mound community devastated, as it occurred just days after a local organization, Guns Down Orange Mound, had renovated the park to make it a safe haven for families. One witness described the scene as "traumatizing." Interim Police Chief CJ Davis emphasized the alarming nature of the "audacious display of weaponry" at the scene, including Glock switches and extended magazines, and the need for federal prosecution. "The Memphis Police Department is investigating the incident and considering seeking federal charges against the suspects, who were seen in circulated videos carrying AR-style weapons," Davis said.

Key Takeaways

• Fatal mass shooting at Orange Mound Park in Memphis, TN on April 22, 2023.
• 2 killed, 7 injured, mostly teenagers, during an unauthorized block party.
• Suspects seen with AR-style weapons, police considering federal charges.
• Shooting occurred after park renovation to create a safe community space.
• Incident highlights ongoing gun violence concerns in Memphis community.