Autopsy Raises Concerns in Shooting of Tennessee Man by National Guard
Details of the Shooting Incident
A fatal shooting involving Tennessee National Guard members occurred over the Fourth of July weekend in Memphis. The victim, 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson, was reportedly shot in the back. This new information from an autopsy creates questions about the official account provided by authorities.
According to initial statements, Johnson was fleeing on foot when he allegedly turned towards the Guard members with a firearm, prompting them to fire. The Memphis police and National Guard were responding to reports of gunfire when the incident occurred.
Autopsy Findings
The autopsy, shared with Johnson’s family, revealed that he was shot in the back. The bullet entered the right side of his back and exited through his upper right chest. It described the trajectory as moving back to front, slightly upward, and to the right. The lack of soot or stippling suggests that the shot was not made at close range.
“The autopsy findings reinforce the serious concerns we have regarding Tyrin’s shooting,” Johnson’s family attorney, Andre Wharton, expressed. “The fact that Tyrin was actually shot in the back… underscores the devastating nature of this encounter.”
Ongoing Investigation and Calls for Transparency
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation continues to examine the shooting. They have stated that the investigation is open and ongoing, providing no further comment at this time. Attempts to get comments from the Tennessee National Guard, Memphis Police Department, and Shelby County Medical Examiner’s Office have been made.
Johnson’s family is urging for the release of surveillance footage and other evidence to help clarify the events leading to his death. The autopsy classified his death as a “homicide,” which indicates it was caused by another person but does not necessarily imply criminal intent.
Legal Considerations
No charges have been filed. The autopsy noted that Johnson was carrying a handgun magazine with rounds, though possessing such was not illegal under Tennessee law.
Questions Surrounding the Incident
Crucial unanswered questions relate to Johnson’s actions just before he was shot. If he did indeed turn toward the Guard members with a firearm, the case for unlawful actions becomes complex. However, if he was fleeing without posing a threat, it could challenge the necessity of lethal force.
Johnson’s past included attending Tennessee State University recently. His family had hopes for his return to academia and involvement in their real estate business.