A Memphis man accused of killing a nightclub security guard in the early hours outside a Hickory Hill club is being held on a $1.5 million bond, with a preliminary hearing set for Aug. 4. The suspect, 36-year-old Dewuan Harris, was taken into custody earlier this month in connection with the fatal shooting.
According to the Memphis Police Department, the department's Fugitive Unit arrested Harris last Wednesday in the 200 block of South Front Street and identified him as the suspect in a Sunday shooting outside the Paradise Lounge. Police said Harris faces charges that include first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, and a firearms count listed as possession with intent to commit a dangerous felony. Investigators urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Local television coverage reported that officers responded in the predawn hours Sunday to the 5900 block of Winchester Road, where they found an adult male with gunshot wounds who was later pronounced dead at the scene. Action News 5 aired the initial report, citing police and again directing anyone with tips to reach out to Crime Stoppers. Detectives have been reviewing surveillance and body-camera footage as the investigation moves forward.
In a Facebook post, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office said Commissioner Taylor set Harris's bond at $1.5 million, with Assistant District Attorney Ada Victoria Gillard handling the hearing. Prosecutors said they presented video evidence and outlined Harris's prior court contacts while arguing that he should remain behind bars. The office confirmed that Harris is still in custody ahead of the scheduled preliminary hearing.
What the charges mean and next steps
Harris is charged with first-degree murder, three counts of criminal attempt first-degree murder, and a firearms enhancement, all of which can bring serious prison time if proven. Under Tennessee law, first-degree murder includes a premeditated killing or a death that occurs during certain violent felonies, and criminal attempt is defined in Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-12-101. According to Justia and court precedent, using or possessing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony is a separate offense that can lead to consecutive sentences.
If a judge finds probable cause at the Aug. 4 preliminary hearing, the case is expected to be presented to a grand jury for possible indictment and transfer to Criminal Court. The District Attorney's Facebook post noted that prosecutors intend to rely on the video evidence introduced at the hearing and that Harris will stay in custody unless the court rules otherwise.
Authorities are still seeking information or footage related to the shooting. Anyone with tips is asked to contact Crime Stoppers. The Memphis Police Department lists tip options and case updates on its news page and directs residents to call 901-528-CASH or submit information through the department's tip line.
