West Memphis is reeling from a spate of gun violence after two men were slain in separate incidents within days of each other. According to a report by WREG, an 18-year-old identified as Freddie McKinney was killed Sunday night on West Jackson Avenue. Police received calls around 9:50 p.m., arriving on the scene to find McKinney fatally wounded. The teen, unresponsive due to multiple gunshot wounds, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following close on tragedy's heels, Action News 5 confirmed a second shooting victim was discovered on Wednesday around midnight at the intersection of East Tyler Avenue and Tyler Circle. Jehrimie Brown, 37, was also found unresponsive and suffering from gunshot wounds, and like McKinney, he was declared dead at the scene, with no suspect information made available.
The investigations into both shootings continue, as the West Memphis Police Department (WMPD) remains resolute in delivering justice to the families impacted by these acts of violence. In a statement obtained by Local Memphis, city officials indicated that the McKinney shooting took place on Mother's Day, adding a layer of tragedy to a day typically reserved for celebration and gratitude.
Authorities urge anyone with information on either case to step forward. Found with information vital to these cases, public cooperation could prove instrumental in apprehending the perpetrators. Calls can be made to the Criminal Investigation Division at 870-732-7554 or the Crittenden County Crime Stoppers at 870-732-4444. The WMPD is determined to stem the tide of senseless violence that has claimed two of their community's own, as aired by Action News 5. The grief-laden string of days casts a long shadow over West Memphis, a town now linked by sorrow and the relentless quest for answers.
