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National Guard members on patrol in Memphis fatally shoot man during pursuit, police say

Published July 6, 2026 at 4:46 AM UTC

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On July 5, 2026, two Tennessee National Guard members, part of a federal crime-fighting task force, fatally shot 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson during a foot pursuit in downtown Memphis. The incident occurred around 4 a.m. when the soldiers, responding to reports of gunfire, began pursuing an armed man fleeing on foot. According to the Memphis Police Department, the guardsmen opened fire after Johnson turned toward them with his weapon. Despite attempts at first aid by National Guard medics, Johnson died at the scene. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is conducting an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Johnson, described by his grandfather as a student, young father, and aspiring music artist, had no significant criminal history. Memphis Mayor Paul Young termed the event "unfortunate" and is awaiting the TBI's findings before commenting further. The Memphis Safe Task Force, active since October and linked to over 10,000 arrests, has been controversial, especially given its connection to multiple officer-involved shootings. Memphis continues to grapple with high violent crime rates, though some categories have declined. A state appeals court recently ruled that Democratic officials could not prevent federal troop deployment in the city.