Black Justice Tracker

Tennessee National Guard Shoots Black Man in Memphis

Tennessee National Guard Shoots Black Man in Memphis

Key Questions

Who was Tyrin Johnson and what happened to him in Memphis?

Tyrin Johnson, a 20-year-old Black man, was shot and killed by Tennessee National Guard soldiers during a pursuit in Memphis as part of the Memphis Safe Task Force. The incident is under investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

What concerns have been raised about the Memphis Safe Task Force?

The task force, backed by the Trump administration, has now been linked to at least four officer-involved shootings. This has prompted worries about militarized policing in Black communities.

What demands are being made by the family and advocates?

The family and the ACLU are calling for the release of video footage from the incident. Johnson's grandfather has specifically emphasized the need for transparency.

What is the status of the investigation into the shooting?

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is handling the probe into the fatal shooting of Tyrin Johnson. Officials face ongoing pressure to release related video evidence.

How does this incident relate to broader policing issues?

It highlights concerns about the use of National Guard personnel in local law enforcement operations and the potential for increased violence in Black communities.

Tyrin Johnson, 20, was shot and killed by Tennessee National Guard soldiers during a pursuit in Memphis. The Memphis Safe Task Force, a Trump-backed operation, has now been tied to at least four officer-involved shootings. TBI is investigating. Family and ACLU are demanding release of video; grandfather calls for transparency. This raises concerns about militarized policing in Black communities.

Sources (3)
Updated Jul 8, 2026