Memphis, December 24, 2025
A male suspect was captured on surveillance footage during a gas station robbery in Memphis. Armed with a handgun, he demanded money from the cashier before fleeing the scene. The police have launched an investigation and are seeking assistance from the public. This incident is part of a troubling trend of gas station robberies in the area, raising concerns about community safety and law enforcement’s ability to combat such crimes.
Memphis Gas Station Robbery Suspect Captured on Surveillance
Memphis, Tennessee – A gas station robbery suspect was captured on surveillance footage, leading to an active investigation by the Memphis Police Department.
Incident Details
On Thursday, December 18, 2025, at approximately 9:13 p.m., a male suspect entered the Circle K gas station located at 3271 Shelby Drive. Armed with a black handgun, he demanded that the cashier place all the money from the register into a brown paper bag. The suspect instructed the cashier to “hurry up” during the robbery. After obtaining the money, the suspect fled on foot, heading east through the parking lot toward Tchulahoma. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 5’8″ to 6’0″ tall, with a thin build and light complexion. He was wearing a black face mask, purple latex gloves, a black jacket, black Nike sweatpants, black shoes, and was armed with a black handgun. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274).
Recent Similar Incidents in Memphis
This robbery follows a series of similar incidents in Memphis. In August 2023, a Horn Lake man was arrested for stealing game machines from multiple gas stations across the city. Between August 10-15, cashiers at five Memphis gas stations reported witnessing one or several thieves taking gaming machines from their stores. The thief was seen loading the machines into a gray Dodge Ram. Surveillance videos identified 43-year-old Ladarius Stewart as the suspect in each theft. All employees positively identified Stewart from photo lineups. The stolen machines were valued at $10,000, excluding the cash inside. He was arrested and charged with five counts of felony property theft.
In March 2024, a woman was robbed of her car in broad daylight while pumping gas at a South Memphis gas station. Surveillance video released by the Memphis Police Department shows two men approaching the woman’s 2017 BMW 320i at the pump. One man snatched the victim’s keys and credit card from her hand, while the other attempted to open the locked back passenger door. The driver then took off, with the accomplice and a third suspect calmly walking away.
Background on Gas Station Robberies in Memphis
Gas station robberies have been a recurring issue in Memphis. In April 2024, a man attempted to rob a gas station armed with a five-foot snake. The suspect, 26-year-old Reginald Cook, entered a Shell gas station near Graceland and made a purchase. About 30 minutes later, he returned, implied he had a weapon, and demanded money from the cashier. The cashier refused to open the register, and Cook left. Approximately 35 minutes later, he returned with a live five-foot snake draped around his neck, ordered the cashier to open the register, and implied he had a gun. The cashier drew his own firearm and called 911. Cook was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted aggravated robbery.
In March 2025, surveillance footage from a Tennessee gas station revealed how a group of robbers wielding pythons attempted to steal cannabis oil. The suspects, holding two pythons, stole about $400 worth of CBD oil from the Citgo truck stop in Denmark, Tennessee. Although snakes may not be direct deadly weapons, Tennessee law allows for arrest on charges of aggravated robbery if an animal is used.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gas station robberies in Memphis. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to assist in preventing such crimes.
Conclusion
Recent events concerning gas station robberies in Memphis underscore the challenges that local law enforcement and businesses face. However, the Memphis community has shown resilience in supporting law enforcement’s efforts to combat these crimes. Residents are encouraged to stay alert and proactive, as community engagement is key to fostering a safer environment for local businesses and patrons alike. Continued vigilance can help enhance the atmosphere of safety that is crucial for economic growth and vitality in Memphis.
FAQs
- What happened in the gas station robbery?
- On December 18, 2025, a male suspect entered the Circle K gas station at 3271 Shelby Drive, demanded money from the cashier at gunpoint, and fled with the cash. The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 5’8″ to 6’0″ tall, with a thin build and light complexion, wearing a black face mask, purple latex gloves, a black jacket, black Nike sweatpants, black shoes, and armed with a black handgun. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274).
- Have there been similar incidents in Memphis?
- Yes, there have been similar incidents. In August 2023, a Horn Lake man was arrested for stealing game machines from multiple gas stations across Memphis. Between August 10-15, cashiers at five Memphis gas stations reported witnessing one or several thieves taking gaming machines from their stores. The thief was seen loading the machines into a gray Dodge Ram. Surveillance videos identified 43-year-old Ladarius Stewart as the suspect in each theft. All employees positively identified Stewart from photo lineups. The stolen machines were valued at $10,000, excluding the cash inside. He was arrested and charged with five counts of felony property theft.
- What other unusual gas station robbery attempts have occurred in Memphis?
- In April 2024, a man attempted to rob a gas station armed with a five-foot snake. The suspect, 26-year-old Reginald Cook, entered a Shell gas station near Graceland and made a purchase. About 30 minutes later, he returned, implied he had a weapon, and demanded money from the cashier. The cashier refused to open the register, and Cook left. Approximately 35 minutes later, he returned with a live five-foot snake draped around his neck, ordered the cashier to open the register, and implied he had a gun. The cashier drew his own firearm and called 911. Cook was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted aggravated robbery.
- What is being done to address these incidents?
- Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating these incidents and encourage the community to remain vigilant. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to assist in preventing such crimes. The Memphis Police Department continues to work on strategies to address and reduce gas station robberies in the area.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Location | Circle K gas station, 3271 Shelby Drive |
| Suspect Description | Black male, 5’8″ to 6’0″, thin build, light complexion, armed with a black handgun |
| Recent Similar Incidents | Theft of gaming machines, car thefts at gas stations |
| Law Enforcement Actions | Active investigations, community vigilance encouraged |
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