Armed Gunman Shot by National Guard Troops Near AutoZone Park

An armed gunman was shot and killed early Sunday morning after he pointed his weapon at Tennessee National Guard soldiers, the Memphis Police Dept. confirmed to KWAM News Radio.

The shooting happened near AutoZone Park and across from the Hilton Garden Inn, sources told the radio station. Video shows yellow crime scene tape stretched across the roadway just in front of the main entrance to the ballpark.

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Memphis Police had responded to a shots-fired call just before 4 a.m.

“Upon arrival, officers observed several individuals leaving the area,” a MPD spokesperson told KWAM News Radio. “Officers then observed an armed male carrying a handgun. The male fled on foot, and officers pursued him with assistance from Tennessee National Guard soldiers assigned to the area.”

The MPD reports that during the pursuit, the male suspect turned toward National Guard members with his weapon.

“Tennessee National Guard soldiers discharged their weapons, striking the male,” the MPD spokesperson told KWAM News Radio. “The male was pronounced deceased at the scene.”

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) will conduct the investigation.

The Commercial Appeal reports that Union Avenue was still closed between B.B. King Boulevard and Fourth Street around 9 a.m.

At least 12 marked and unmarked law enforcement vehicles and multiple officers were on site, the newspaper reported.

The shooting came after a violent night in downtown. The Memphis Safe Task Force responded to numerous incidents involving black young people and teenagers fighting on Beale Street and shooting fireworks at spectators in Tom Lee Park.

There’s been no comment from Mayor Paul Young regarding the shooting or the violence. Be sure to click here to get KWAM News Radio breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox.

Categorized:Local News