Two people were wounded Wednesday evening after shots rang out near Bolivar's Taylor Cove neighborhood, according to police. Officers arrived shortly after calls came in around dusk and found both victims suffering from gunshot injuries. Investigators remained on scene into the evening, processing evidence as neighbors watched a heavy law enforcement presence settle over the block.
Police Work Scene After Evening Shooting
Officers were dispatched just after 5:45 p.m. and located two individuals with gunshot wounds, FOX13 Memphis reported. Criminal investigators were called in to conduct interviews and search for evidence while the case remained an active investigation.
Chief Warns of Gunfire in Residential Areas
Bolivar Police Chief Michael Jones did not mince words about the dangers of bullets flying through neighborhoods.
"Incidents involving gunfire in residential neighborhoods place innocent citizens, including children, at serious risk," Jones said, as reported by WBBJ. He said officers are working to identify those responsible and urged anyone with information to contact police.
Mother Says Son Hit After Stepping Outside To Talk
Neighbors and family members told reporters that one victim, identified by his mother as Jorvontai Polk, stepped outside to speak with a friend when one or two people came through a carport and opened fire, according to Action News 5. Polk's mother said her son has undergone multiple surgeries for lung and spine injuries and cannot move his legs. His friend was reported to be in surgery for an arm wound, and both were described as in critical condition.
How Residents Can Help Investigators
Bolivar police are asking anyone with information to call the department's business line at (731) 658-4284, the tip line at (731) 228-3117, or email [email protected], according to the city's police page. Officials said tips can be shared confidentially while investigators continue interviewing witnesses and processing physical evidence.
Recent Gun Violence Keeps Bolivar on Edge
The shooting adds to a string of violent incidents that have put residents on alert in recent years. Hoodline reported on a June 2024 block-party shooting in Bolivar, and a December 2024 vehicle shooting later led to an arrest pursued by the U.S. Marshals Service, according to a press release. Local leaders have repeatedly called for new approaches to curb gun violence as police work to solve Wednesday's attack.
