MEMPHIS, Tenn. – April 14, 2025 — A festive afternoon turned tragic on Sunday when gunfire erupted at Tom Lee Park in downtown Memphis, leaving a teenager dead and sending hundreds of attendees into chaos during the popular Foodees Food and Culture Festival. The shooting has prompted a full-scale investigation by the Memphis Police Department and raised new concerns about safety at public events.
The incident occurred in the early afternoon, as crowds gathered along the riverfront to enjoy food vendors, cultural exhibits, live music, and family-friendly activities. What began as a celebration of local food and culture quickly turned into a scene of panic when multiple gunshots rang out near a congested area of the park.
Teen Fatally Shot Amid Hundreds
According to MPD officials, the victim — later confirmed to be a 17-year-old male — was found with a gunshot wound after officers responded to several 911 calls reporting shots fired around Riverside Drive and Beale Street, adjacent to Tom Lee Park. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures at the scene before the teen was transported to Regional One Health, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. Police have not confirmed whether the victim was targeted or if he was an unintended victim caught in the crossfire. At this time, no suspects are in custody, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.
A Celebration Marred by Violence
The Foodees Food and Culture Festival, a well-attended annual event that brings together local food vendors, artists, and entertainers, was abruptly shut down following the shooting. Attendees described moments of panic and confusion as they scrambled to find safety. Parents were seen clutching their children, vendors dropped supplies, and some people leaped barricades to flee the area.
“There were people dancing, eating, just having a good time — then suddenly we heard pops,” said one attendee, Maria Jenkins. “It took a second to register that it was gunfire. People just started running in all directions. It was terrifying.”
Festival organizers released a statement late Sunday evening, expressing their condolences to the victim’s family and affirming their commitment to working with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
“We are heartbroken by the violence that occurred during what was meant to be a joyful celebration of community and culture,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones, and we are fully cooperating with Memphis Police as they work to bring those responsible to justice.”
Law Enforcement Response and Ongoing Investigation
In response to the shooting, Memphis Police quickly mobilized a large law enforcement presence in and around Tom Lee Park. The area was cordoned off with crime scene tape, and investigators were seen collecting evidence well into the evening hours. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and park cameras and are urging anyone who may have captured video or photos during the time of the incident to come forward.
Police also issued a public appeal for witnesses to help identify the shooter. “We know there were a lot of people in the area, and someone saw something,” said MPD Deputy Chief Carolyn Davis. “Even a small detail could help us move this case forward.”
Those with information are encouraged to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Tips can remain anonymous, and a cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Community Leaders Call for Action
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for action from community leaders and violence prevention advocates, who say that the city must do more to protect youth and families at public events.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” said Pastor Derrick Johnson, a youth mentor and local activist. “We can’t allow violence to become normalized at gatherings where we’re supposed to feel safe. We need real investment in intervention programs, youth outreach, and community policing that builds trust.”
City officials, including Memphis Mayor Paul Young, have also issued statements condemning the violence and pledging full support for the investigation.
“This was a senseless act of violence that stole the life of a young person,” said Mayor Young. “Our hearts go out to the family of the victim. We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable, and we will continue working to ensure our public spaces remain safe for everyone.”
