Armed Man Opens Fire outside Jewish School in Memphis, Tennessee, Suspect Shot by Authorities
Memphis, Tennessee – An armed man attempted to gain entry into a Jewish school in Memphis, Tennessee on Monday afternoon before opening fire, according to authorities. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.
The Memphis Police Assistant Chief, Don Crowe, reported that police were called to the Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South around 12:20 p.m. ET after the suspect tried to enter the school. Despite failing to gain entry, the armed individual proceeded to fire shots outside of the school.
School officials promptly provided the police with a photo and a description of the suspect’s maroon colored Dodge Ram pickup truck, enabling the authorities to quickly identify and locate the vehicle. The suspect was stopped by Memphis police officers shortly after and subsequently got out of the truck while holding a gun. This prompted an officer to shoot the suspect in order to neutralize the threat.
The suspect was immediately taken to a local hospital and is currently in critical condition. Authorities are yet to establish the motive behind the incident, and it is too early to determine whether it was a hate crime or if the suspect had any connection to the school. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation, with support from the FBI. Additionally, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and the Bartlett Police Department assisted in locating the suspect.
Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis commended the quick response of the MPD officers, stating: “I am proud of the vigilant and quick response of MPD officers who mitigated a potential mass shooting situation today.” Chief Davis also expressed gratitude to neighboring jurisdictions for their invaluable support in stopping the suspect’s actions.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on high alert, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the safety and security of all schools and places of worship.