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Teen Arrested with Stolen Handgun After Graduation Fight

Graduation ceremony with security personnel present at a convention center.

News Summary

A 17-year-old was arrested after a fight erupted outside the Renasant Convention Center during a high school graduation event in Memphis. The altercation raised concerns about youth violence and gun possession, as the suspect was found with a stolen loaded handgun. Authorities emphasize the growing issue of gun violence among young people in the community, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures at local events.

Teen Arrested with Stolen Handgun Following Fight at Hamilton High School Graduation in Memphis

Memphis, TN – A 17-year-old was arrested after a fight broke out outside the Renasant Convention Center following the Hamilton High School graduation on the evening of May 22, 2025. The incident, reported to the Memphis Police Department (MPD) around 6:20 p.m., raised significant concerns regarding youth violence and gun possession in the community.

Police officers arrived at the scene where they found the suspect already detained by security personnel from the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS). During the altercation, the teen allegedly attempted to retrieve a handgun. Subsequent searches by MSCS officers revealed a loaded handgun concealed in the suspect’s right pants leg. Authorities confirmed that the firearm was stolen.

The teen has been formally charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Theft of Property concerning the firearm. The other individual involved in the fight was released at the scene without any charges.

Rising Concerns Over Gun Violence Among Youths

The incident is part of a troubling trend concerning gun violence among young people in Memphis. Retired Shelby County Sheriff’s Lt. Mike Collins pointed out that more teenagers are being found in possession of stolen firearms, highlighting the increasing challenges of managing youth crime and public safety in the area.

This confrontation at the Renasant Convention Center is notably the second weapons-related incident to occur at the venue within just a week. A previous event during a Douglass High School graduation caught attention when a loaded Glock 19X was dropped during a physical altercation. The individual involved in that incident, identified as 21-year-old Jeremiah Thomas, now faces several charges, including carrying a firearm on school property and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Background of the Venue’s Safety Concerns

The Renasant Convention Center has increasingly come under scrutiny regarding safety measures in place during graduation ceremonies and similar large community events. Following these two incidents, community members are reiterating calls for enhanced security protocols to protect attendees and students alike.

Graduation events are typically significant milestones for students and families, symbolizing achievement and celebration. However, the emergence of violence and firearm possession during these gatherings raises serious questions about the safety of young attendees and the need for proactive measures to prevent further occurrences.

These recent events not only highlight the presence of firearms among youths but also underscore ongoing discussions in local communities about effective strategies to address youth violence. Community leaders and law enforcement agencies are now faced with the challenge of devising solutions to help ensure safer environments for celebrations such as high school graduations.

As Memphis authorities continue to investigate these incidents, they remain committed to addressing the wider implications of youth gun possession and violence, striving for the safety and well-being of all community members.