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Store Clerk Shoots Suspect During Memphis Robbery Attempt

Interior of a convenience store during a robbery attempt

Memphis, Tennessee, January 8, 2026

In Memphis, a store clerk shot a male suspect during an armed robbery attempt at a convenience store on Alcy Road. The suspect fled with an injury, and police are seeking public assistance to identify him. The clerk was unharmed, highlighting the ongoing risks store employees face during such incidents.

Memphis: Store Clerk Shoots Suspect During Attempted Robbery

Memphis, Tennessee – A store clerk shot a suspect during an attempted robbery at a convenience store on Alcy Road on January 5, 2026. The suspect fled the scene after being injured, and the Memphis Police Department is seeking information from the public to identify and locate him.

Incident Details

At approximately 10:00 a.m. on January 5, a male suspect entered the Quick Check Store at 1570 Alcy Road and brandished a black handgun, demanding money from the clerk. In response, the clerk drew his own firearm and fired a shot that struck the suspect in the upper body. Despite his injury, the suspect managed to flee the store on foot, heading north on Perry Road. He is described as a thin male, approximately 5’2″ to 5’5″ tall, with a tattoo over one of his eyebrows, wearing a black face covering, a white hoodie with a red shirt underneath, black pants, and black shoes. He was armed with a black handgun and is believed to be between 18 and 22 years old. The clerk was unharmed during the incident.

Investigation and Public Appeal

The Memphis Police Department is actively investigating the incident and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information about the suspect or the events surrounding the attempted robbery is urged to contact the Memphis Police Department. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274) or online at [Crime Stoppers website].

Background Context

Incidents involving store clerks defending themselves during attempted robberies are not uncommon. In similar cases, such as the 2012 Aldi Robbery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a customer intervened during an armed robbery, leading to a self-defense shooting. These events highlight the risks faced by store employees and the importance of self-defense measures in such situations. However, it’s crucial to note that each incident is unique, and the outcomes can vary based on numerous factors, including the actions of the individuals involved and the specific circumstances of the event.

Safety Recommendations

Store owners and employees are advised to implement comprehensive safety protocols, including training on handling robbery situations, installing security systems, and establishing clear communication channels with law enforcement. Customers are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities promptly.

Related Incidents

  • Chicago Convenience Store Shooting: In a recent incident, a convenience store employee was fatally shot during an attempted robbery in Chicago. The suspect fired shots, striking the employee in the head, leading to the victim’s death at the scene. The store owner expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the employee, a former police officer from Jordan. [Source]
  • Norwalk Smoke Shop Shooting: In another case, the owner of a smoke shop in Norwalk, California, fatally shot one of four suspects who attempted to rob the store. The shooting occurred around 8:30 a.m. at the Classic Tobacco smoke shop. The suspect who was struck by gunfire was taken to the hospital, where he later died. The shop owner was not injured. Authorities searched a nearby neighborhood for the other suspects who fled. [Source]

Conclusion

The attempted robbery in Memphis underscores the ongoing challenges faced by store employees in safeguarding themselves and their establishments. The Memphis Police Department continues to investigate the incident and seeks public assistance in identifying the suspect. Community cooperation is vital in addressing and preventing such crimes.

FAQ

What happened during the attempted robbery in Memphis?

On January 5, 2026, a male suspect entered the Quick Check Store at 1570 Alcy Road, brandished a black handgun, and demanded money from the clerk. The clerk responded by firing a shot that struck the suspect in the upper body. The suspect fled the scene on foot and is currently being sought by the Memphis Police Department.

How can I assist in the investigation?

If you have any information about the suspect or the incident, you are encouraged to contact the Memphis Police Department. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274) or online at [Crime Stoppers website].

What are the safety recommendations for store owners and employees?

Store owners and employees should implement comprehensive safety protocols, including training on handling robbery situations, installing security systems, and establishing clear communication channels with law enforcement. Customers are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities promptly.

Are there similar incidents elsewhere?

Yes, similar incidents have occurred in other locations. For example, in Chicago, a convenience store employee was fatally shot during an attempted robbery. In Norwalk, California, a smoke shop owner fatally shot one of four suspects who attempted to rob the store. These incidents highlight the risks faced by store employees and the importance of self-defense measures in such situations.

What is the current status of the suspect?

The suspect is described as a thin male, approximately 5’2″ to 5’5″ tall, with a tattoo over one eyebrow, wearing a black face covering, a white hoodie with a red shirt underneath, black pants, and black shoes. He was armed with a black handgun and is believed to be between 18 and 22 years old. He fled the scene on foot and is currently being sought by the Memphis Police Department.

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Key Features

Feature Description
Incident Date January 5, 2026
Location Quick Check Store, 1570 Alcy Road, Memphis, Tennessee
Suspect Description Thin male, 5’2″ to 5’5″ tall, tattoo over one eyebrow, black face covering, white hoodie with red shirt, black pants, black shoes, armed with black handgun, believed to be 18-22 years old
Clerk’s Response Fired a shot that struck the suspect in the upper body; unharmed
Investigation Status Active; public assistance sought
Contact Information Memphis Police Department; Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274) or online at [Crime Stoppers website]

Now Happening on X

  • @WREG3 (January 1, 2026, 10:00 AM) Breaking update: A child was grazed by a bullet and one person died following two separate New Year’s Eve shootings in Memphis. View on X
  • @WMCActionNews5 (January 4, 2026, 5:04 PM) Memphis Police are investigating a shooting that left one man in critical condition. View on X
  • @ABC24Memphis (January 5, 2026, 9:34 AM) One person is dead and two others injured after a shooting in Memphis on January 4 evening. View on X
  • @TnCoNews1 (January 7, 2026, 5:30 PM) The Memphis Safe Task Force executed 50 criminal arrests, seized eight illicit firearms, and recovered an endangered missing child on Monday. View on X
  • @therealdougbell (January 5, 2026, 10:15 AM) The Memphis Safe Task Force announced the New Year’s Eve arrest of an alleged kidnapper, rapist, and drug dealer. View on X
  • @TWTN1015 (January 5, 2026, 12:51 PM) The Memphis Safe Task Force released a list of names and crimes committed since the National Guard’s arrival in the city. View on X
  • @JFK19thPres (January 8, 2026, 3:12 AM) Members of the Memphis Safe Task Force executed 50 criminal arrests, seized eight illicit firearms, and recovered an endangered missing child on Monday. View on X

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STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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.

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