MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A late-night shooting at a Hickory Hill gas station has left one man dead and another injured, marking yet another heartbreaking incident of gun violence in Memphis.
Authorities confirmed the victim killed in the attack was Deshun Dodson, a 29-year-old man from Memphis, Tennessee. The shooting occurred shortly before midnight Wednesday at the BP gas station located at Winchester Road and Hickory Hill Road, an area that has seen a troubling rise in violence in recent months.
What Happened at the Scene
According to Memphis Police, multiple shots rang out in the gas station parking lot, causing chaos as customers and staff scrambled for safety. When officers arrived, they discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds.
Dodson was pronounced dead at the scene, while another victim was rushed to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Detectives said the suspect fled immediately after the shooting, and no arrests have been announced at this time.
Victim Remembered
Family and friends are mourning the sudden loss of Deshun Dodson, describing him as a young man who had his whole life ahead of him. Dodson, who lived in Memphis, was single and known by those close to him as someone who loved his city despite its challenges.
“He didn’t deserve this. Deshun was just living his life and now he’s gone because of senseless violence,” a family friend shared.
Community members gathered near the gas station Thursday morning, leaving flowers, candles, and prayers in his memory.
Police Statement
The Memphis Police Department released a brief statement on the incident:
“This tragic shooting claimed the life of a Memphis resident and left another injured. Our investigators are working diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and track down those responsible. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
Authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with surveillance footage from the area to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.
A Troubling Pattern
The Hickory Hill community has experienced several violent incidents in the past year, with residents voicing growing concerns about safety at late-night businesses in the area. Community leaders are calling for increased security and police patrols to help prevent further tragedies.
“This is a tragedy not just for Deshun’s family, but for all of Memphis,” said one neighborhood advocate. “We can’t afford to lose more young lives to gun violence. Something has to change.”
Moving Forward
As Dodson’s family grieves, the Memphis community is once again reminded of the devastating toll of gun violence. Friends and loved ones say they want people to remember him not just as a victim, but as someone whose life mattered deeply.
Funeral arrangements for Deshun Dodson are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
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