Memphis, Tennessee, December 23, 2025
A 16-year-old boy was arrested in Memphis after allegedly shooting his 20-year-old brother during an argument over food. The incident, which occurred late at night, left the victim critically injured and has raised concerns about gun violence among youth in the area. Authorities are emphasizing the need for awareness regarding juvenile access to firearms.
Memphis, TN: Teen Arrested After Shooting Brother Over Food Dispute
Memphis, Tennessee – A 16-year-old boy was arrested late Sunday night after allegedly shooting his 20-year-old brother during a dispute over food in East Memphis, according to the Memphis Police Department (MPD).
Incident Details
Officers responded to a shooting call just before midnight on the 1300 block of Greentree Valley Court. Upon arrival, they were informed by the father that he had heard his sons arguing over food, followed by a gunshot. The father found his 20-year-old son lying on the bedroom floor with a gunshot wound to his stomach. The victim reportedly stated, “He shot me,” indicating the altercation had escalated beyond a verbal disagreement.
Suspect’s Account
The 16-year-old suspect claimed he was playing with a handgun, which he had obtained from a friend, when it accidentally discharged, striking his brother. He was immediately taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a weapon. The victim was transported to Regional One Health in critical condition.
Background Context
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and juvenile access to firearms in Memphis. Residents have expressed alarm over the ease with which young individuals can obtain weapons, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to address these issues.
Related Incidents
Memphis has experienced several recent shootings involving teenagers. In April 2025, a 20-year-old was arrested and charged with first-degree murder after fatally shooting a man in the Orange Mound area. In September 2021, two teenage brothers were arrested in connection with the shooting death of a 17-year-old at a Five Guys restaurant in East Memphis. These incidents underscore the broader challenges the community faces concerning youth violence and firearm access.
Memphis Police Department’s Response
The MPD continues to investigate this case and urges the public to report any information related to gun violence or juvenile offenses. Authorities are committed to addressing these issues through community engagement, education, and enforcement of existing laws to ensure the safety of all residents.
Key Takeaways
The recent shooting incident has not only raised questions about safety but also about the broader implications of access to firearms among young people. As the community navigates these challenges, collaboration between law enforcement, families, and local lawmakers may be essential in pursuing effective strategies to curb violence and promote awareness of responsible gun ownership.
FAQs
What happened in the shooting incident in East Memphis?
A 16-year-old boy was arrested after allegedly shooting his 20-year-old brother during a dispute over food in East Memphis. The victim was critically injured and transported to the hospital.
What charges is the 16-year-old facing?
The 16-year-old has been charged with aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a weapon.
What is the current condition of the victim?
The 20-year-old victim is in critical condition and was transported to Regional One Health for treatment.
What is the suspect’s account of the incident?
The 16-year-old claimed he was playing with a handgun, which he had obtained from a friend, when it accidentally discharged, striking his brother.
What is the Memphis Police Department’s response to this incident?
The MPD is investigating the case and urges the public to report any information related to gun violence or juvenile offenses. Authorities are committed to addressing these issues through community engagement, education, and enforcement of existing laws to ensure the safety of all residents.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East Memphis, Tennessee |
| Incident | 16-year-old arrested for allegedly shooting 20-year-old brother over food dispute |
| Charges | Aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon |
| Victim’s Condition | Critical, transported to Regional One Health |
| Suspect’s Account | Claimed accidental discharge of handgun obtained from a friend |
| MPD’s Response | Investigating the case, urging public to report information on gun violence and juvenile offenses |
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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.
