News Summary
A tragic shooting incident at Memphis Rox on June 29 led to the deaths of two men, including a valued employee, Jarmond Johnson. The gym is temporarily closed to allow staff and supporters to mourn. Authorities have made one arrest and the investigation is ongoing, raising concerns about safety in public spaces. Johnson’s contributions to the climbing community were significant, highlighting the profound loss felt within Memphis Rox.
Memphis – A tragic shooting incident on June 29, 2025, at Memphis Rox, a nonprofit rock climbing gym in South Memphis, has resulted in the deaths of two men, including a valued employee, Jarmond Johnson. The shooting unfolded around 4:13 p.m. following an argument between individuals inside the gym.
Authorities reported that one man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second individual succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Jarmond Johnson, 25, was among the victims, and Memphis Rox has confirmed his passing, mourning the loss of the young mountain climber who was well-regarded in the community.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Memphis Rox has announced a temporary closure, effective June 30, 2025, allowing staff and supporters to process their grief and honor Johnson’s memory. The gym’s management has made it clear that this closure is temporary and that the facility will not shut down permanently.
The Memphis Police Department has stated that one person has been detained in connection with the incident. Investigators believe the gunfight stemmed from an altercation between Johnson and another individual, highlighting that both men were known to each other prior to the incident. Following the shooting, Farris Haley, a 28-year-old man, was arrested and charged with tampering with evidence and resisting official detention. These charges came about after he allegedly attempted to hide a gun related to the investigation.
Social media discussions following the tragedy suggest that both the suspect and the victim may have been armed during the incident, raising questions about the events that led to the gunfire. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities gather pertinent information.
This shooting marks a day of profound sadness for the Memphis Rox community, which is dedicated to inclusivity and the love of rock climbing. Jarmond Johnson’s contributions to the gym were significant, and his loss is felt deeply by the staff and patrons. In light of the incident, supporters of Memphis Rox are encouraged to rally around the organization during this challenging time, offering words of comfort and solidarity.
Memphis Rox is committed to continuing its mission of providing access to climbing and supporting community programs that promote physical and mental well-being. The gym is known for its efforts to build a welcoming environment for climbers of all ages and backgrounds.
This shooting underscores ongoing concerns about safety in public spaces and the effects of armed violence in communities. Memphis Rox’s temporary closure serves as a moment for reflection, ensuring that everyone involved can take the time needed to heal and recover from this tragic event.
As more details emerge from the investigation, the Memphis community is reminded of the importance of supporting one another in times of crisis. Memphis Rox plans to reopen in the future, continuing to provide a safe space for all climbing enthusiasts and opportunities for personal growth through sport.
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Additional Resources
- Climbing.com
- FOX13 Memphis
- Gripped
- WREG
- Daily Memphian
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- Google Search: Memphis Rox
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in Public Spaces
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google News: Memphis Rox shooting
