Marcus Epps, Leon Parker Obituary, Death News: MPD identifies two men killed in South Memphis shootout
Mass Shooting in South Memphis Leaves Two Dead and Three Injured
Marcus Epps, Leon Parker Obituary, Death News – Authorities have identified the two men killed in a mass shooting that rocked South Memphis on Wednesday afternoon. Marcus Epps, 27, and Leon Parker, 30, lost their lives in a violent incident that also left three others with life-threatening injuries. The Memphis Police Department (MPD) continues to investigate the events that unfolded near LeMoyne-Owen College.
The chaotic scene took place on College Park Drive, just steps away from a college campus, daycare, and tutoring facility. The entire area was cordoned off for hours as squad cars, ambulances, fire trucks, and crime scene vans filled the street. MPD Chief C.J. Davis and other senior officials were present at the scene to oversee the investigation.
Details of the Incident
According to MPD spokesperson Lt. Louis Brownlee, the violence erupted inside a residence following a disturbance. “There was some type of disturbance inside the residence that led to an exchange of gunfire,” Brownlee said. Officers arrived at the scene to find five people suffering from gunshot wounds.
One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second succumbed to injuries at Regional One Health. The three surviving victims were hospitalized with critical injuries. Authorities have confirmed that everyone involved in the incident has been located.
“Everything right now indicates it was contained inside the residence,” Brownlee added.
Lingering Questions
Despite identifying the victims and locating the involved individuals, key questions remain unanswered. Investigators have not disclosed who fired the first shots or whether any of the survivors would face criminal charges. The exact motive for the shooting also remains unclear.
Residents in the area expressed shock and concern over the incident, noting the proximity to educational institutions and childcare facilities. “This is too close to home, especially with kids nearby,” one local resident said.
LeMoyne-Owen College’s Response
LeMoyne-Owen College, located just yards from the scene of the shooting, was quick to reassure students, faculty, and the community that the incident did not directly involve the college. In a statement released shortly after the shooting, the college confirmed that its operations remained unaffected.
“LeMoyne-Owen College remains fully operational following reports of an off-campus incident near 948 College Park Drive. The incident did not involve or impact LeMoyne-Owen College students, faculty, or staff, and there are no lockdowns or alerts in place at this time,” the statement read.
Dr. Dunn-Ross, Chief Operating Officer of LeMoyne-Owen College, emphasized the college’s commitment to safety. “The safety and well-being of our campus community is always our top priority,” Dunn-Ross stated. “We are aware of the situation and in communication with local authorities. At this time, there is no threat to our campus, and operations will continue as normal.”
Community Concerns and Police Investigation
The incident has sparked concerns among residents and parents with children attending nearby facilities. Some have called for increased police presence and enhanced safety measures to prevent future violence in the area.
The Memphis Police Department’s investigative team, including its Crime Scene and Homicide units, is working to piece together the timeline and circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities are reviewing evidence from the scene and interviewing witnesses to gain a clearer understanding of the events.
While MPD has not ruled out potential charges, they have refrained from providing further details until the investigation is complete.
A Community in Mourning
The deaths of Epps and Parker have left a void in the South Memphis community. Friends and family members have expressed their grief, remembering both men as valued members of their circles. Social media has been filled with tributes, calls for peace, and demands for answers regarding the circumstances of the shooting.
As the investigation continues, community leaders are calling for calm and urging residents to cooperate with authorities to ensure justice is served.
Looking Forward
The tragic shooting highlights the ongoing challenge of gun violence in Memphis and other urban areas. City officials and law enforcement are likely to face renewed pressure to address safety concerns and implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
For now, the focus remains on the investigation and the recovery of the three survivors still fighting for their lives. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to help provide clarity and closure for the community.
MPD’s ongoing efforts aim to provide answers, accountability, and reassurance for the people of South Memphis as they grapple with this senseless act of violence.
