Trial Date Set for Alleged Memphis Shooter Ezekiel Kelly
In the city of Memphis, the long-awaited trial of Ezekiel Kelly, the man accused of a shocking spree shooting, is set to begin on July 14, almost three years after the tragic events unfolded. Kelly is facing 28 felony charges, including serious accusations of terrorism and multiple counts of first-degree murder. The stakes couldnโt be higher, as the Shelby County District Attorney’s office has indicated they are seeking the death penalty if Kelly is found guilty.
A Night of Terror in Memphis
The sequence of events began in the early hours of September 7, 2022, when Kelly allegedly embarked on a horrifying, hours-long spree. According to law enforcement, the wounded city’s streets were rocked by his reckless actions, as he drove around Memphis shooting people at random.
Tragically, the first victim was identified as Dewayne “Sosa” Tunstall, a Memphis resident who lost his life that fateful night. But the evening of terror didnโt end there. Kelly is also accused of killing Allison Parker, a nurse from West Memphis, and Richard Clark, a 62-year-old man who was shot while sitting in his car outside a gas station. Each of these lives was extinguished amidst chaos, terror, and sadness.
Crime Spree and Car Theft
As if shooting innocent people wasnโt enough, Kelly allegedly engaged in car thefts during his rampage. He is reported to have stolen several vehicles, with the final one taken from a gas station in Southaven. This act marked an escalation in his brazen behavior, leading to a police pursuit that ultimately ended in his arrest later that night, right in the heart of Whitehaven.
A Disturbing Live Show
In a bizarre twist, during parts of this alleged spree, Kelly reportedly filmed himself via Facebook Live. Disturbingly, one of these live streams captured a horrific moment, showing a man being shot inside an auto parts store. Police quickly connected the dots and recognized the severity of the situation, subsequently issuing a city-wide shelter-in-place order for the safety of Memphis residents. This daunting order remained in place until Kelly was apprehended, lifting the cloud of fear that hung over the city.
What Lies Ahead?
As the trial approaches, itโs important to note that the court case will be closely watched by the community and the nation. The details that emerge during the proceedings may shed light on Kelly’s motives and the harrowing experiences of the victimsโ families. The emotional weight of these crimes cannot be overstated, and the conversation surrounding gun violence and mental health continues to grow, prompting many to reconsider how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
Set against the backdrop of a city still healing from its pain, the upcoming trial will not only serve as justice for the victims and their loved ones but may also play a part in urging deeper discussions about safety, community, and compassion.
In Memphis, lives were irrevocably changed, and as the trial date looms, the community waits and hopes for justice and closure.
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.
