Memphis, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Memphis has witnessed a troubling rise in gun violence with two recent shooting incidents. Early Monday, a motel shooting critically injured a man, while a separate shootout in Frayser resulted in the death of Cordney Smith, a local rapper. Community members express alarm over the escalating violence, believed to be linked to ongoing rap feuds. Police are investigating both cases and seeking public assistance to enhance safety in affected neighborhoods.
Memphis – A shooting incident occurred early Monday morning at a motel in the Cherokee area of Memphis, injuring one individual. The shooting took place around 4:30 AM, with the male victim suffering critical injuries and subsequently being transported to a local hospital. According to reports, the suspects fled the scene in a small sedan, and police have launched an investigation into the incident which remains ongoing.
In a separate incident, another shooting took place shortly after midnight on Sunday in the Frayser neighborhood, resulting in the death of a man identified by family members as Cordney Smith, known in the music scene as C Money. He was part of the local rap duo FastCash Boyz. The shooting occurred in an area near Macaulay Drive and Macaulay Cove, where multiple homes were reportedly hit by gunfire. Surveillance footage from the vicinity captured the chaotic scene, showing dozens of shots exchanged between vehicles as the situation escalated.
Following the shootout, police discovered Smithโs body approximately half a mile away, at the intersection of Maritavia Street and Georgian Drive. Witnesses indicated that they heard between 60 to 100 gunshots during the exchange, raising concerns among community members about the increase in violence in what is typically a quiet neighborhood. Speculation among locals points towards a potential rap feud that might have led to these violent incidents, suggesting that tensions have been rising since the prior Friday.
Local authorities are urging residents to come forward with any information that could assist in their investigation. They have encouraged anyone with relevant details about the shootings to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. As the investigation continues, police emphasize that they are committed to understanding the events that transpired and ensuring the safety of the community.
Background Context
The recent incidents in Frayser and Cherokee area shine a light on the ongoing issue of gun violence in Memphis. The presence of rap feuds and rivalries has been a longstanding concern, potentially contributing to a rise in altercations that escalate into fatal shootings. C Money, the deceased rapper, was known in the local hip-hop scene, and his death has sparked conversations about community safety and the impact of music culture on violence. The police department remains vigilant, dedicating resources to address the increasing crime rates and manage public safety effectively.
Police Efforts and Community Response
Law enforcement agencies in Memphis are actively working to address the spike in gun violence. Collaborating with community leaders and organizations, they are focusing on outreach programs aimed at violence prevention. Police are also utilizing surveillance technology and community tips to investigate shootings and work towards reducing the incidence of gun-related crimes. The support of local residents is deemed essential for enhancing safety and restoring peace in the neighborhoods affected by violence.
FAQ Section
What happened in Memphis on Monday morning?
A shooting occurred at a motel in the Cherokee area around 4:30 AM, injuring one male victim who was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Who was the victim of the shootout in Frayser?
The victim was identified as Cordney Smith, known as C Money, who was a rapper and part of the duo FastCash Boyz.
Is there an investigation underway regarding these incidents?
Yes, the police are actively investigating both shootings and are seeking information from the public to assist in their inquiries.
Key Features of the Incidents
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Incidents | Monday (early morning) and Sunday (after midnight) |
| Location of Shootings | Cherokee area at a motel and Frayser neighborhood on Macaulay Drive |
| Victims | One male victim injured critically and Cordney Smith, a rapper killed |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing with a call for public tips |
| Community Concerns | Increase in gun violence and possible rap feud surrounding incidents |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Man killed in Frayser shootout identified as Memphis rapper C Money
- WREG: Memphis rapper identified in fatal Frayser shooting
- Action News 5: Man dead after overnight shooting in Frayser
- Wikipedia: Gun violence in the United States
- Google Search: Memphis gun violence

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 areaโwith 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.


