Memphis Residents Upset Over Destruction of Historic Marker
MEMPHIS, Tenn. โ Residents in the Evergreen District are in a bit of a tizzy after a driver in a stolen car smashed into a beloved neighborhood pillar, leaving many wondering how they will replace this historic landmark.
The incident took place last Tuesday when a black Nissan Maxima rolled through a stop sign at Overton Park Avenue and Garland Street. Already in a bit of a hurry, the driver collided with a Volkswagen Jetta before barreling right into the six-foot-tall concrete and stone marker that has stood as a proud symbol of the neighborhood for potentially a century or more!
Witnesses Recall the Incident
Resident Jeff Toony was home when the chaos unfolded. He described hearing a loud crash from inside and rushed outside to offer help. Unfortunately, the occupants of the Nissan were nowhere to be found, having fled the scene before anyone could even get a good look at them. โBy the time I got out there, I saw feet running that way. Other people saw the kids running,โ noted Toony.
According to police reports, two females in bright shirts and two males in white tank tops were seen sprinting away from the wreck. How they managed to get away is still a mystery, especially since a nearby homeownerโs security camera caught them darting through their yard like a scene straight out of a movie!
The Vehicle Uncovered
Authorities later confirmed that the stolen Nissan Maxima had been taken from a home on Belin Drive back on October 11. While the driver of the Jetta was transported to Methodist University Hospital, thankfully, they sustained only minor injuries. Talk about a stroke of luck, right? Toony was more than a little relieved that all of this didnโt end up worse. โIf that monument had not been there, they would have run into my house and probably smashed into me,โ he exclaimed.
Importance of the Historic Marker
This historic stone pillar isnโt just a pretty sight. Locals see it as a neighborhood symbol, a reminder of a time and history that many cherish. Toony revealed his plans to reach out to the Evergreen Historic District Association as well as the city in hopes of figuring out who will take responsibility for replacing the damaged structure.
Interestingly, on the other side of the street, thereโs another identical stone pillar that stands just as tall and proud. Together, theyโre like bookends to the communityโs character, but now one of them lies in ruins. โI donโt know if Iโm responsible because itโs on my property,โ Toony pondered, scratching his head at the complexities of ownership and responsibility.
What Happens Next?
As the community rallies to find answers, they hope that justice will be served and the culprits caught. If you happen to have any information regarding this incident or the suspects involved, the local police encourage you to reach out to CrimeStoppers at (901)528-CASH. Every little bit helps in solving this mystery!
This unfortunate event has sparked conversations not only about the loss of the marker but also about the importance of community safety. Residents are reminded to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for one another. After all, a neighborhood is like a family, and itโs always better when we look out for each other!
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.
