The family of a 20-year-old man who was fatally shot by members of the Tennessee National Guard during a law enforcement operation in Memphis is calling for the public release of video footage as state investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The shooting occurred early Sunday after Memphis police responded to reports of gunfire in the downtown area. Authorities said officers encountered an armed man, later identified by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) as Tyrin Johnson, who fled on foot. According to police, two Tennessee National Guard members joined the pursuit as part of the Memphis Safe Task Force, a joint crime-fighting initiative operating in the city.
Law enforcement officials said Johnson turned toward the pursuing Guard members while holding a handgun, prompting the soldiers to open fire. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement personnel were injured. The TBI has opened an independent investigation into the shooting.
Johnson’s grandfather, Evaniel Johnson, has disputed the official account and is urging authorities to release any available body-camera or surveillance footage. He said the family wants to understand exactly what happened and believes the video could help clarify the sequence of events.
Several Tennessee Democratic lawmakers have also called for the prompt release of any available video evidence, saying transparency is important for both the Johnson family and the public while the investigation proceeds.
The Memphis Safe Task Force was established to help address violent crime through cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies, including Tennessee National Guard personnel. The deployment has generated both support and criticism since its launch, with supporters citing public safety concerns and critics raising questions about the use of military personnel in civilian law enforcement operations.
Investigators have not indicated when video footage, if any exists, may be released. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said its review of the shooting remains ongoing.
The Readovia Lens
As investigations involving the use of deadly force continue to draw national attention, transparency remains an important part of maintaining public confidence. The release of evidence, when appropriate and consistent with investigative requirements, can help establish the facts while supporting accountability for everyone involved.
