News Summary
The Memphis Police Department investigates the tragic death of a child following a reported incident in Mintane Cove. The case unfolds against the backdrop of a severe heatwave and rising crime, including shootings and violent events. Memphis is also confronting significant judicial cases, including the trial of Justin Johnson for the murder of Young Dolph and another related to Tyre Nichols. The community remains vigilant and concerned about safety amid these ongoing challenges.
Memphis – The Memphis Police Department (MPD) is currently investigating the tragic death of a child reported on the evening of July 19, 2025. Authorities responded to a call regarding a “man down” at 6:49 p.m. in the 4000 block of Mintane Cove. The child was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but unfortunately succumbed to injuries shortly after arrival. The MPD has confirmed that investigations are ongoing, as they work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
As the investigation unfolds, Memphis is grappling with a severe heatwave, expected to persist throughout the week. High temperatures combined with humidity have prompted a heat advisory as a dome of high pressure settles over the eastern United States. Local residents are adapting to the extreme conditions by seeking relief at splash pads and public pools, while officials are urging caution amid these hazardous weather conditions.
This distressing incident follows a series of violent events in Memphis. Earlier this week, a man was seriously injured in a shooting in Soulsville. Additionally, a University of Memphis basketball player was arrested for alleged assault against his girlfriend. A motorcycle crash in East Memphis also left a man seriously injured, reflecting the increasing levels of crime and violence faced by the community. Moreover, the MPD is actively searching for suspects linked to a homicide in southeast Memphis, indicating ongoing safety concerns.
Investigations also continue surrounding a recent officer-involved shooting in Lee County, which left a suspect severely injured. The depth of ongoing investigations into violent crime serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing local law enforcement.
The backdrop of these events includes a historically haunting murder mystery involving the discovery of skeletal remains at the abandoned Mall of Memphis. On July 19, 2006, two sets of remains were uncovered in the mall’s overgrown weeds. The victims were identified as two women, one of whom was 49-year-old Kathy Higginbotham. Both were believed to have been stabbed to death. The site spans a staggering 95 acres and remains one of Memphis’ most chilling murder mysteries. Law enforcement officials utilized cadaver dogs and search recruits to comb through the area during the search, which was conducted under oppressive summer heat.
In the judiciary spotlight, the trial of Justin Johnson, accused of the first-degree murder of rapper Young Dolph, is also significant to Memphis’ current events. The trial commenced with days of testimony, revealing that Young Dolph was shot and killed at Makeda’s Cookies in 2021. The prosecution has suggested that the incident may have involved a contract killing. Evidence presented included discussions about the crime scene, detailing gunshot wounds sustained by Young Dolph. The jury is expected to begin deliberations soon, highlighting the gravity of the case.
In addition to the murder trial, another trial related to the death of Tyre Nichols is ongoing. Testimonies have emerged detailing the brutal beating Nichols experienced, resulting in blunt force trauma that was later ruled a homicide by authorities. The community remains conscious of these incidents, particularly with the emotional weight carried by the ongoing investigations into police conduct and community safety.
As the Memphis community navigates the complexities of crime, heat, and trials, officials continue to advocate for public safety while residents find solace and support amidst rising tensions caused by ongoing investigations.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: MPD Investigating Child’s Death
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- WREG: Woman Charged in Murder of Son of Memphis Rapper
- Google Search: Memphis murder trials
- Daily Memphian: Young Dolph Murder Trial
- Google Scholar: Young Dolph murder trial
- Commercial Appeal: Big Jook Death Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis crime
- Action News 5: Tyre Nichols Death Trial
- Google News: Tyre Nichols trial
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF 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.
