A Memphis homicide case in Highland Heights is unfolding around a trail of surveillance footage, a yellow box cutter, and a woman found dead behind a neighborhood home.
Police say 51-year-old Terry Higgs was arrested on May 8 and is charged with first-degree murder and first-degree murder in perpetration of aggravated rape in the death of Anna Scott. According to investigators, Scott's body was found on May 4 behind a residence in the 840 block of N. Holmes Street, where firefighters pronounced her dead at the scene.
WREG reports that officers discovered Scott holding a Dollar General bag. Police observed underwear that appeared to have been cut in the middle and marks on her neck that were consistent with a blade-type object. The outlet notes that her blue jeans had a rip between the legs just to the right of the seam.
Investigators reviewed surveillance video that allegedly shows Scott and Higgs briefly interacting behind a Mapco gas station, then separating near New Tyler A.M.E. Church. Additional footage reportedly appears to show a man matching Higgs purchasing a yellow box cutter, cigarettes, a bottle of water, and a lighter shortly before 9 a.m.
Charges and the Alleged Evidence
Police say a yellow box cutter was later recovered at Higgs's home and that it matched the cutter seen on the surveillance footage. Investigators have ruled Scott's death a homicide by violence.
Under Tennessee law, first-degree murder can include killings committed in the course of certain violent felonies, including aggravated rape, and it carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment or, in some circumstances, capital punishment. Justia outlines the state code on first-degree murder, while Justia also details the aggravated rape statute that classifies the offense as a Class A felony. Prosecutors have filed charges, but Higgs remains presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty in court.
Next Steps in the Case
According to WREG, Higgs is scheduled for a Memphis court appearance on Tuesday, and no bond has been set. The Shelby County District Attorney's Office will review the case file and determine whether any additional charges are warranted as more evidence is processed.
Court hearings and filings are expected in the coming weeks. Investigators have asked anyone with information or relevant video to contact the Memphis Police Department's homicide unit as they continue to piece together the timeline of Scott's final hours.
