News Summary

The Memphis Police Department is investigating a homicide at Hickory Forest Apartments, coupled with another shooting incident involving a victim who later died at the hospital. These violent crimes raise urgent concerns in Memphis, recently labeled the ‘Homicide Capital of America’ by the FBI. The community is being urged to assist authorities with any information. Law enforcement actions are also focused on a murder suspect who prompted a university lockdown. Local officials emphasize the need for increased safety measures amidst a troubling spike in violent crime.

Memphis Investigates Homicide and Growing Violent Crime Concerns

The Memphis Police Department (MPD) is investigating a homicide that took place at Hickory Forest Apartments in Hickory Hill on Monday evening. Officers responded to the scene around 4 p.m. after receiving reports of a shooting along North Little Brook Circle, where they discovered a woman deceased upon arrival. As of now, the MPD has not released any suspect information and is urging anyone with details about the incident to reach out to CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

In a separate incident, a suspect is being sought in connection with a shooting that transpired on December 31, 2023, in the 3300 block of River Valley Lane at approximately 5:15 p.m. The victim, identified as Deonte Fletcher, was transported by a private vehicle to St. Francis Hospital suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, Fletcher was later airlifted to Regional One Hospital, where he died from his injuries. At the shooting scene, police recovered a Palmetto PA-15 AR-style firearm and several 9mm spent shell casings. A late-model black Ford four-door pickup truck was spotted leaving the area shortly after the gunfire erupted. Authorities are again asking for assistance from the public – anyone with information about this shooting is encouraged to call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

University Lockdown Following Quadruple Murder Suspect

Meanwhile, Union University in Jackson was placed on lockdown as law enforcement searched for Austin Drummond, a suspect wanted for four counts of first-degree murder, one count of kidnapping, and several gun-related charges. The lockdown, which was initiated on Monday morning, restricted access to all campus buildings. Law enforcement concentrated their search in areas including Pleasant Plains Road, Oil Well Road, and Country Club Lane in Jackson. Residents have been asked to review any security camera footage captured since August 3 to assist authorities in locating Drummond.

Drummond is considered armed and dangerous, leading to increased caution among local officials. Two individuals, Dearrah Sanders and Brandon Powell, have already been arrested and charged in connection with the murders linked to Drummond, and two other suspects, identified as Brown and Giovante Thomas, face charges as accessories after the fact.

Recent Crime Trends Raise Alarm

These incidents come during a period of heightened concern regarding violent crime in Memphis. Recent statements from the Director of the FBI have labeled the city as the “Homicide Capital of America” on a per capita basis. Local officials, including Senator Brent Taylor, emphasized the need for increased federal involvement to combat rising crime levels effectively. There is a pressing urgency to address the spike in violent crime and to raise public awareness of the situation.

In response to this alarming trend, a recent meeting between police officials and the governor’s office focused on initiatives aimed at strengthening the MPD. Crime statistics for the current month indicate that 28 homicides have occurred within the first 25 days alone, highlighting significant concerns regarding youth gun violence in the community.

The alarming increase in violent crime, coupled with recent critical incidents, underscores the urgent need for community support and law enforcement cooperation to enhance safety in Memphis. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information that may assist police in their investigations.

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Additional Resources

• Action News 5: MPD Looking for Homicide Suspect
• Local Memphis: Union University Lockdown for Murder Suspect
• Fox 13 Memphis: FBI Director Calls Memphis Homicide Capital
• Memphis Flyer: Homicide Capital, Maybe
• WREG: FBI Director Calls Memphis Homicide Capital of the USA
• Wikipedia: Violent Crime
• Google Search: Homicide Memphis

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.