Questions Arise After Autopsy of Memphis Shooting Victim

A 20-year-old man was killed by Tennessee National Guard members during a pursuit in Memphis on the Fourth of July weekend. An autopsy reveals new questions as it shows that he was shot in the back. This detail challenges the initial official account.

Incident Overview

Tyrin Johnson was fatally shot in the early hours of July 5. Memphis police and Tennessee National Guard members, part of the Memphis Safe Task Force, responded to gunfire reports downtown. Initially, police stated Johnson was running from them, turned, and pointed a gun before soldiers opened fire.

Autopsy Findings

Johnson’s family received an autopsy report, which found a bullet entered the right side of his back, exiting through the upper right chest. The trajectory was back to front, slightly upward. No evidence of close-range firing was found, as there was no soot or stippling.

‘The autopsy findings reinforce the serious concerns we have regarding Tyrin’s shooting,’ said Andre Wharton, the family’s attorney.

Wharton highlighted that the autopsy’s findings contrasted with official accounts, raising serious concerns about the nature of the encounter.

Investigation and Responses

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation confirmed the inquiry is ongoing. They, along with the National Guard, the Memphis Police Department, and the Shelby County Medical Examiner, have been asked for comments but have not provided further information.

Call for Evidence Release

Johnson’s family is urging the release of surveillance footage and other evidence to clarify the moments leading up to the shooting.

The autopsy classified Johnson’s death as a ‘homicide,’ indicating it was the result of another person’s actions but not necessarily criminal.

No criminal charges have been filed. The investigation continues.

Additional Details and Context

Johnson had a handgun magazine with rounds, which his family states was not illegal under Tennessee law.

According to a university spokesperson, Johnson was a student at Tennessee State University from August 2023 to May 2024. His grandfather hoped he would continue his studies and contribute to the family’s real estate business.

The critical unanswered question remains: what actions did Johnson take immediately before the shooting? The physical evidence could potentially conflict with the official story if Johnson did not, in fact, turn toward the soldiers as claimed.