Last Friday evening, a candlelight vigil on Austin Peay was met with a harrowing interruption when a car with three masked individuals tried to breach a restricted area. As reported by the Memphis Police Department's social media, the Memphis Police Department officers halted the potential threat without sustaining injuries.
The incident escalated rapidly, with the driver reversing their vehicle in a manner that threatened the officers on the scene. Meanwhile, no officers were hurt. A brief chase ensued, which led to the capture of all three suspects. Their vehicle crashed during the pursuit, aiding in the swift response of law enforcement.
Weapons, including handguns and rifles, one of which was modified with a machine gun "switch," were discovered in the suspects' car, alongside marijuana ready for sale. Deeric Walton, 28, and Khaleed Nooh, 27, among the arrested, now face a slew of felony charges. These range from assault on officers to drug trafficking. The driver, also restrained and hospitalized with non-critical injuries, continues to be part of an ongoing investigation.
Memphis Police Chief CJ Davis lauded the officers involved, stating, "This was another example of incredible police work by every single officer involved." According to the Memphis Police Department, Davis believes their actions not only secured the vigil but also led to the apprehension of "dangerous offenders" and the seizure of illegal firearms, contributing to a "Stronger, Safer Memphis."
