Gunfire Erupts in Soulsville Neighborhood Home; Authorities Investigating as Community Mourns Another Tragic Act of Violence

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A tragic mass shooting in South Memphis has left two people dead and three others fighting for their lives after gunfire erupted inside a residential home on the 900 block of College Park in the Soulsville neighborhood.

The Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 3:35 PM on Wednesday, arriving at the scene to find a chaotic and tragic situation. Five adult victims were found suffering from gunshot wounds inside the home.

One man, later identified as Leon Parker, 34, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another victim, whose name has not yet been released pending family notification, succumbed to injuries at the hospital shortly after arrival.

The remaining three victims are currently hospitalized in critical condition, fighting for their lives.

Key Facts About the Shooting:

✅ Time of Incident: Around 3:35 PM
✅ Location: 900 block of College Park, Soulsville Neighborhood, Memphis
✅ Victims: Five adults shot inside the home
✅ Fatalities: Leon Parker (deceased on scene), second victim (deceased at hospital)
✅ Injured: Three victims in critical condition
✅ Suspect(s): No suspect details released yet

Chaos and Panic in the Soulsville Neighborhood

Neighbors in the tight-knit Soulsville community reported hearing rapid gunfire followed by screams for help. Many rushed outside, only to see MPD officers and emergency medical personnel racing to the scene.

One local resident, James Whitmore, 57, who lives two houses down from the crime scene, described the terrifying moments:

“I was sitting on my porch when I heard about ten gunshots in rapid succession. At first, I thought it was fireworks, but then I heard someone yelling for help. I saw people running and then police showed up fast.”

Police officers blocked off the area immediately, setting up crime scene tape as paramedics worked to stabilize the injured victims before rushing them to Regional One Health Medical Center.

Who Were the Victims?

The Memphis Police Department has confirmed Leon Parker as one of the deceased victims but has not yet released the names of the other four victims due to ongoing notifications to families.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that all five victims were inside the home when the shooting broke out. Some sources indicate that they were friends or family members, but authorities have not yet disclosed whether the shooting was targeted or random.

A family member of one of the victims, Tasha Bryant, spoke to reporters outside the hospital, expressing shock and devastation.

“Leon was a good man. He didn’t deserve this. None of them did. We need justice.”

Search for the Suspect: What We Know So Far

As of Thursday morning, police have not released information on a suspect or motive. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, hoping to identify a potential shooter or vehicle that fled the scene.

MPD officials confirmed they are following multiple leads and urge anyone with information to come forward.

“We are actively investigating and asking for the community’s help,” said MPD spokesperson Lt. Marcus Johnson.

Community Outrage Over Rising Gun Violence in Memphis

The tragic shooting adds to the growing concerns over violent crime in Memphis. The Soulsville neighborhood, while historically rich in culture and music, has seen an increase in gun-related violence in recent months.

Local activist Pastor Raymond Wilkins of the Memphis Community Peace Initiative condemned the shooting, calling for action:

“We have lost too many lives to gun violence. It’s time for the city to step up, for people to speak out, and for justice to be served.”

Memorial and Support for the Victims’ Families

Friends and family members have started a vigil outside the home where the shooting occurred, leaving candles, flowers, and handwritten notes in memory of the victims.

A GoFundMe page has also been created to help with funeral costs and medical expenses for the survivors.

What’s Next?

Memphis Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to call Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH.

As the investigation unfolds, more details will be released about the victims, the suspect, and a possible motive.