Memphis Man Charged Following Attempted Carjacking at Zaxby’s
In a bizarre turn of events, a 22-year-old man has been charged with an attempted carjacking that left witnesses in shock. The incident unfolded on July 7 at a Zaxby’s restaurant located at the busy intersection of Houston Levee and Macon Road in Memphis.
According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, identified as Phedoris Thompson, Jr., has been charged with a variety of serious offenses. These include criminal attempt first-degree murder, attempted carjacking, and aggravated assault. On top of that, he faces charges for employing a firearm with the intent to commit a felony. It’s hard to believe that someone could muster the nerve to pull a gun in broad daylight, especially in a place as well-frequented as a fast-food joint.
The frightening incident occurred when Thompson allegedly fired shots in an attempt to steal a vehicle from a victim inside the Zaxby’s parking lot. It must have been a terrifying moment for the individuals nearby who were just there to grab a bite to eat. Fortunately, no one was reported injured in the gunfire, but it’s clear this incident has left a mark on the community.
Law enforcement got on the case immediately following the attempted carjacking, and after weeks of investigation, they secured enough evidence to arrest Thompson on September 6. Collaborating agencies included the Hardeman County Sheriff’s Office and the Bolivar Police Department, showcasing the team effort that went into tracking this suspect down.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of community safety in light of this incident. They reminded residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The announcement of Thompson’s arrest is seen as a relief to many who frequent the area and worry about safety at local establishments.
Besides the charges stemming from this incident, it’s worth noting that Thompson faces additional felony and weapon charges with the Bolivar Police Department. This backstory raises questions about his past and what led him to make such a reckless choice.
The community has displayed resilience in the face of crime, but this event serves as a stark reminder of how quickly situations can spiral out of control. Frequent diners at Zaxby’s and nearby businesses expressed their concern over the violence that took place just steps away from where they eat and shop. Many had questions about safety and what measures could be taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In the aftermath, some patrons shared their thoughts on social media, expressing both disbelief and concern. Many were quick to commend law enforcement for their prompt response to apprehend Thompson, highlighting the importance of having dedicated police work in keeping neighborhoods safe. “I just can’t believe something like this would happen right in the middle of the day. It makes you think twice about going out,” one user posted.
Parents picking up their children from nearby schools are particularly shaken by the news. The thought that anyone could willingly put lives at risk while committing such an act means that extra caution may be necessary when moving about the community. Many are now more alert and concerned about their surrounding environments.
While Thompson’s arrest may bring some sense of justice, the psychological impact of the event will likely linger. Residents hope the judicial process will see that justice is served properly, and they want bold measures taken to ensure that a situation like this doesn’t happen again. “We need to feel secure at places like this, where families gather. Leadership in our city should be looking into Safety Precautions to prevent this from happening again,” expressed one local diner.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder to all of us to remain alert and supportive of our community law enforcement. The collaboration between local agencies not only brought about a timely arrest but also reaffirms that when communities work together, they become stronger against crime.
Moving forward, residents of Memphis will likely remain vigilant as they approach their daily lives. The memory of July 7 may fade, but community dialogue about safety and crime prevention is far from over.
Authorities have encouraged anyone who may have additional information about the incident or Thompson’s activities leading up to the shooting to come forward. It takes a village to maintain peace, and every bit of information can help.
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.
