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Traffic Stop Turns Violent in Memphis, Leads to Arrest

Police officers conducting a traffic stop outside a grocery store in Memphis.

Memphis, October 9, 2025

News Summary

Luis Cordova, a 26-year-old man, faces multiple charges after a traffic stop in Memphis escalated to violence. He allegedly assaulted a U.S. marshal, prompting the police to deploy a Taser. Cordova, who has a history of driving without a license, is currently in federal custody and has a pending legal case.

Memphis

Luis Cordova, a 26-year-old man from Cordova, is in federal custody following a traffic stop incident that escalated to violence. Cordova faces multiple charges, including forcible assault, resistance, impediment, and intimidation of a person engaged in official duty. The confrontation occurred on Wednesday, October 1, outside Emilioโ€™s Grocery, located at 2757 Getwell Road in Memphis.

The traffic stop was initiated by a Tennessee state trooper after Cordova reportedly ran a red light. At the time of the stop, Cordova did not possess a driverโ€™s license. Members of the federal law enforcement Memphis Safe Task Force were present to assist the trooper during the stop, which contributed to the incident’s escalation.

Cordova was determined to have limited English proficiency, prompting the attendance of a Spanish-speaking FBI agent to investigate his immigration status. However, sources indicated that Cordova did not respond to the agent’s inquiries and avoided eye contact. According to Shelby County detainee records, Cordova is a legal U.S. citizen from Mexico.

As the situation unfolded, after exiting his vehicle, Cordova inquired if he should call his lawyer. Subsequently, he raised his hands and backed away from the officers. A deputy U.S. marshal on the scene announced that Cordova was under arrest. However, during the arrest attempt, it is alleged that Cordova struck the marshal. In response to Cordova’s non-compliance, officers deployed a Taser.

As a result of the altercation, the deputy U.S. marshal sustained injuries to his hand and elbow, and he hit his head on the ground. Cordova also reportedly sustained undisclosed injuries during the incident, as documented in court files. Currently, Cordova is in federal custody and appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge on Friday, October 3.

It is noteworthy that Shelby County Court records indicate Cordova was previously found guilty of driving without a license or proof of insurance during the summer of 2023. This history may factor into the ongoing legal proceedings regarding his current charges.

Background Context

The Memphis Safe Task Force is comprised of various federal and local law enforcement agencies, designed to enhance safety and reduce crime in the region. Traffic stops are routine but can sometimes lead to escalated confrontations, especially if individuals do not comply with officers’ commands or possess questionable legal standing. In Cordova’s case, his lack of a driver’s license and the presence of multiple law enforcement officers contributed to the severity of the event.

FAQ

Who is Luis Cordova?

Luis Cordova is a 26-year-old man from Cordova who was arrested following a traffic stop incident.

What charges does Cordova face?

Cordova faces charges of forcible assault, resistance, impediment, and intimidation of a person engaged in official duty.

When did the incident occur?

The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 1.

Where did the traffic stop take place?

The traffic stop took place outside Emilioโ€™s Grocery at 2757 Getwell Road, Memphis.

What was the reason for the traffic stop?

The traffic stop was initiated because Cordova reportedly ran a red light.

What was Cordova’s legal status?

Cordova is a legal U.S. citizen from Mexico, according to Shelby County detainee records.

What injuries were sustained during the incident?

The deputy U.S. marshal sustained injuries to his hand and elbow, and hit his head on the ground. Cordova also sustained undisclosed injuries.

What was Cordova’s previous legal issue?

Cordova was found guilty of driving without a license or proof of insurance in the summer of 2023.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Name Luis Cordova
Age 26
Location Cordova, Memphis
Date of Incident October 1
Charges Filed Forcible assault, resistance, impediment, intimidation
Involved Agency Memphis Safe Task Force, Tennessee State Trooper
Previous Criminal Record Guilty of driving without a license (summer 2023)

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Additional Resources

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 areaโ€”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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