NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A tragic incident in Memphis over the weekend has left a young family heartbroken and searching for answers. Evaniel Johnson is the grandfather of Tyrin Johnson, a 20-year-old man who was shot and killed by members of the Tennessee National Guard. The shooting occurred while the guard was responding to reports of gunfire in the area.
Evaniel Johnson is now demanding transparency from law enforcement as he seeks to understand what happened. He is particularly interested in video footage that may clarify the police’s claim that Tyrin turned toward the guard members with a gun while fleeing from them. “Show me the video,” he urged, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for his grandson’s memory until he gets answers.
The National Guard had been deployed to Memphis as part of a crime-fighting initiative established by former President Donald Trump, who aimed to address violence in Democratic-led cities. This incident has raised concerns, with many questioning the effectiveness and implications of having armed troops patrolling neighborhoods.
Evaniel Johnson, a former correctional officer, firmly believes that his grandson would not have posed a threat to the guards. He described Tyrin as someone who was cautious after a recent incident where he was attacked, leading him to carry a gun for protection. This context adds complexity to the narrative surrounding the shooting.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is currently reviewing the circumstances of the shooting, and reports indicate that Tyrin was shot twice in the chest. However, the Memphis Police Department has not provided details on the footage or when it might be released.
Calls for a transparent investigation have come from various politicians, including Tennessee Senate Democratic Leader Raumesh Akbari and Chairwoman London Lamar. They stress the importance of releasing any available video evidence to ensure public confidence in the investigation’s outcomes.
State Representative Justin Pearson also voiced his concern, arguing that armed soldiers in the streets intimidate residents and calling for the disbanding of the federal task force involved in the shooting.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Tennessee has echoed these sentiments, advocating for a clear and open investigation rather than a closed one that leaves the community in the dark.
Despite the mixed reactions to the National Guard’s presence in Memphis, Governor Bill Lee supports federal intervention, while Mayor Paul Young has taken a more neutral position, acknowledging that the troops were coming regardless of his preference.
Tyrin Johnson did not have a serious criminal record, with only minor traffic violations noted. He was a student at Tennessee State University and had plans for the future, including a role in his family’s real estate business. His grandfather reflects on how much he wishes Tyrin had stayed home that weekend instead of going out to enjoy the Fourth of July, ultimately leading to a devastating loss.
“His future was buying homes, living life, taking care of his little baby. He had a future. It’s gone now,” Evaniel Johnson sadly remarked, highlighting the profound impact of this tragedy on their family.
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Brook reported from New Orleans.
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Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
