Cordova, Tennessee, December 2, 2025
A 56-year-old woman in Memphis has been charged with second-degree murder following the death of her husband, Derrick Curtis, in a suspected domestic violence incident. The situation arose after a crash that revealed injuries inconsistent with the minor damage to the vehicle. The community is in shock as organizations highlight the need for support in domestic violence situations.
Memphis Woman Charged with Husband’s Murder in Cordova
Memphis, Tennessee – A 56-year-old woman has been charged with second-degree murder following the death of her husband in Cordova on Saturday night. The incident occurred after a single-vehicle crash, during which the husband sustained severe injuries consistent with a stabbing.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 9:53 p.m. on Saturday, Shelby County sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a Chevrolet Colorado that had crashed into a ditch at the intersection of Macon Road and Houston Levee Road. The vehicle’s sole occupant, identified as Derrick Curtis, was found bleeding heavily inside the vehicle. Deputies observed a significant amount of blood in the driver’s side floorboard, which appeared disproportionate to the minor damage from the crash.
Paramedics at the scene reported that Curtis stated his wife had stabbed him. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The following day, his wife, Sheila Curtis, 56, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. She is currently held at the Shelby County Jail on a $500,000 bond.
Investigation Findings
According to the arrest affidavit, Derrick Curtis informed paramedics that his wife had stabbed him. Further investigation revealed that the blood found in the vehicle was inconsistent with the minor damage from the crash, suggesting that the injuries were sustained prior to the accident. Sheila Curtis was subsequently charged with second-degree murder in connection with her husband’s death.
Background Information
Second-degree murder charges are typically applied in cases where the defendant is accused of causing death without premeditation but with intent. In Tennessee, a conviction for second-degree murder can result in a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 60 years. The case remains under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances leading up to the incident.
Related Incidents
Domestic violence-related deaths have been a concern in various parts of the country. For instance, in September 2025, a woman in Metlakatla, Alaska, was charged with criminally negligent homicide after fatally stabbing her husband during an argument. Such incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing domestic violence and ensuring the safety of individuals within their homes.
Community Response
The Cordova community has expressed shock and sadness over the incident. Local organizations are emphasizing the importance of seeking help in situations of domestic conflict and are offering support services to those in need. Authorities continue to encourage individuals experiencing domestic violence to reach out to local resources for assistance.
Legal Proceedings
Sheila Curtis is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing. The legal process will determine the next steps, including potential trial proceedings. The community remains attentive to the developments of the case, awaiting further information from law enforcement and the judicial system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Sheila Curtis been arrested on?
Sheila Curtis has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of her husband, Derrick Curtis.
What is the significance of the blood found in the vehicle?
The blood found in the vehicle was inconsistent with the minor damage from the crash, suggesting that the injuries were sustained prior to the accident.
What is the potential sentence for a second-degree murder conviction in Tennessee?
A conviction for second-degree murder in Tennessee can result in a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 60 years.
Are there similar incidents elsewhere?
Yes, similar incidents have occurred in other parts of the country, such as the case in Metlakatla, Alaska, where a woman was charged with criminally negligent homicide after fatally stabbing her husband during an argument.
What support is available for individuals experiencing domestic violence?
Local organizations in the Cordova community are emphasizing the importance of seeking help in situations of domestic conflict and are offering support services to those in need. Authorities continue to encourage individuals experiencing domestic violence to reach out to local resources for assistance.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cordova, Tennessee |
| Victim | Derrick Curtis |
| Suspect | Sheila Curtis |
| Charge | Second-degree murder |
| Incident Date | Saturday night (specific date not provided) |
| Investigation Findings | Blood in vehicle inconsistent with minor crash damage; paramedics reported victim stated wife stabbed him |
| Community Response | Shock and sadness; local organizations offering support services |
| Legal Proceedings | Preliminary hearing scheduled; further legal steps to be determined |
Now Happening on X
- @KLynda77879 (November 29, 2025, 8:48 PM) The National Guard presence in Memphis is dividing the community, referencing past controversies with the elite police Viper squad involved in a fatal beating incident. View on X
- @gijoe_abn (November 29, 2025, 7:21 PM) Federal officials have launched a crime hotline for Memphis public housing residents, with the Memphis Safe Task Force reporting over 3,100 arrests, 501 firearms seized, and 121 missing children located. View on X
- @ChurchSecurityI (November 29, 2025, 12:32 AM) The Memphis Safe Task Force, targeting the city’s highest violent crime rate among major U.S. cities in 2024, has cut murder rates in half and brought crime to its lowest level in 20 years; Governor Bill Lee highlights the progress and speculates on the next city for similar action. View on X
- @erictrumpfan1 (November 25, 2025, 11:45 PM) Attorney General Pam Bondi reports major results from the Memphis Safe Task Force, including over 3,100 arrests, 500 weapons seized, and 121 missing children found, with Governor Bill Lee noting murder rates halved and crime at a 20-year low. View on X
- @Lilymarwe3az (November 26, 2025, 2:05 AM) Attorney General Pam Bondi updates on the Memphis Safe Streets Task Force achievements: more than 3,000 arrests, 121 missing children located, and significant progress in reducing violence, though many families are still separated during the holidays. View on X
- @MAGA_FORCE_ (November 25, 2025, 6:25 PM) Major update on the Memphis crime crackdown by the Safe Task Force: over 3,100 arrests, 500 illegal weapons seized, and 121 missing children recovered, with Governor Bill Lee confirming murder rates cut in half and overall crime at a 20-year low. View on X
- @intheMatrixxx (November 25, 2025, 4:57 PM) Attorney General Pam Bondi announces substantial progress from the Memphis Safe Task Force since its deployment, including more than 3,100 arrests, 500 illegal weapons seized, and 121 missing children located, leading to halved murder rates and the lowest crime in 20 years per Governor Bill Lee. View on X
- @STUinSD (November 25, 2025, 4:38 PM) Attorney General Pam Bondi reports successes of the Memphis Safe Task Force: over 3,100 arrests, 500 illegal weapons seized, and 121 missing children found, resulting in murder rates cut in half and crime at its lowest in 20 years according to Governor Bill Lee. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Youth Justice Center Reinstates In-Person Services
Investigation Launched After Ole Miss Football Player Shot in Cordova
Sheldon Herrington Pleads Guilty in Jimmie Lee Case
Former Memphis Officer Sentenced for Murder
Jury Selection Begins in Trial of Memphis Gynecologist
Memphis Police Seek Three Suspects in Convenience Store Shooting
Investigation Underway for Officer-Involved Crash in Midtown Memphis
NBA Suspends Employee Over Controversial Posts
Legal Battle Over Court Attire and Media Coverage Intensifies
Utah Judge to Decide on Accused Assassin’s Courtroom Appearance
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.
