The Memphis community is preparing to lay to rest 26-year-old Joseph McKinney, an officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty last Friday. Action News 5 reports that the visitation and funeral services will be held at Hope Church at 8500 Walnut Grove on Monday, April 22. According to the same source, friends and family can pay their respects from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral commencing at 1:30 p.m., followed by the interment at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave.

In a confrontation that escalated quickly said by police, McKinney, who was serving out of Raines Station and had joined the force in 2021, encountered two suspects in a suspicious vehicle. FOX13 Memphis details that 18-year-old Jaylen Lobley opened fire, which resulted in his death and the fatal wounding of McKinney. The incident also left another officer injured who, after being rushed to the hospital, thankfully survived.

McKinney's dedication to his community extended beyond his role as an officer. He was an Eagle Scout which, as his family and friends mourn his loss, stands testament to his character and leadership. He leaves behind a young daughter, his fiancée, parents, a brother, and a circle of relatives and friends. The memory of McKinney, known affectionately as "Rusty", will be kept alive through the countless lives he has touched.

Following the tragic event, Interim Memphis Police Chief C.J. Davis, in a statement obtained by Local Memphis, expressed the grief felt by both the officer's family and that of the suspects. Memphis Mayor Paul Young, addressing the city, called for a "community call to action," saying, "We are heartbroken of the lives lost, our fallen officer, in this senseless act of violence," and urged the importance of accountability, including for young people. To support McKinney's family through this challenging time, the Memphis Police Association Charitable Foundation has initiated a fundraiser on Facebook.