A Memphis man is facing a first-degree murder charge after a February shooting on a South Memphis sidewalk left 29-year-old Angel White mortally wounded, according to police. Officers say White was found on Feb. 26 at the corner of Kerr Avenue and James Street and rushed to Regional One in critical condition. She died roughly two weeks later.
Investigators identified the suspect as Murcus Curry. He is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree murder in the perpetration of a robbery, employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, according to Action News 5.
Police say surveillance video captures an argument between Curry and White just before gunfire erupts. Additional footage, according to investigators, appears to show the vehicle returning to the scene and the suspect going through White’s pockets after the shooting.
How First-Degree Murder Works In Tennessee
Under Tennessee law, first-degree murder is the state’s most serious homicide charge. It covers premeditated killings as well as certain deaths that occur during violent felonies such as robbery. The state criminal code spells out the offense and potential penalties, which can include life in prison or, in aggravated cases, the death penalty, according to Law.justia.
Phone Sale, Cell Data Help Build The Case
Detectives say White’s phone turned up in an ecoATM kiosk the day after the shooting and that it was sold using Curry’s identification. Investigators later recovered the device and reviewed calls and messages that they say link Curry and White shortly before the shooting, according to Action News 5.
Police also report cellphone activity from Curry’s phone in the area of Kerr and James around the time of the shooting, a digital breadcrumb that investigators say helped place him at the scene.
Ongoing Investigation In A City Pushing To Cut Crime
The Memphis Police Department says the case remains active and is asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274). The plea for tips comes as MPD touts a broader effort to bring violent crime down. The department’s own data shows overall crime falling more than 40 percent in the first quarter of 2026, a trend officials credit in part to enforcement efforts and community partnerships. Contact and tip information is available through MPD, and the latest crime numbers are detailed in MPD’s report.
The Homicide Unit continues to work the case as prosecutors prepare for court. Investigators are particularly interested in any additional video from the Kerr and James area on Feb. 26, along with tips that could help verify the surveillance and cellphone evidence already collected.
