A man is clinging to life in a Memphis hospital following a daylight shooting in a barbecue restaurant's parking lot. The violence broke out Tuesday afternoon at the Tops Bar-B-Q on Summer Avenue, with Memphis police responding to the call at approximately 3:54 p.m., as reported by Action News 5.
The victim, a man in his 20s, was rushed to Regional One Hospital in critical condition. The perpetrator drove off in a gray truck, setting the stage for a manhunt, according to information provided by the Memphis Police Department. Local Memphis reported that the shooting took place in the rear park lot of the restaurant.
Amidst the investigation and the community's outcry, Tops Bar-B-Q has emphasized its attention to safety and the well-being of its patrons and staff. "The safety and security of Tops employees, customers, and communities is our top priority. We are thankful to report that no team members or customers were involved or injured in today's incident," the company announced in a statement quoted by FOX13 Memphis. In respect for those affected, the restaurant location was shuttered for the remainder of the evening following the incident.
The Memphis community has been urged to step forward with any details they might possess. The Memphis Police Department is appealing to the public for tips, asking anyone with information to call 901-528-CASH. This ask was echoed by Randy Hough, CEO of Tops Bar-B-Q, who, in a statement obtained by Local Memphis, extended "our deepest appreciation to the first responders who were quick to arrive and ensured the safety of those on the property and administered care to the wounded."
