Arrest and Charges
In a disturbing turn of events, two teenagers have been arrested and charged in connection with a violent crime spree that culminated in the murder of a man at a Memphis truck stop. The suspects, 18-year-old Be As Mayor Head and an unnamed 13-year-old, are facing serious charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.
Timeline of Events
The series of crimes began early Tuesday morning. According to Memphis Police, between 3 and 4 AM, a maroon Kia Sorento was stolen from an apartment complex on Woodlake Circle in the Oakhaven neighborhood.
Shortly thereafter, at around 4:15 AM, two individuals working in a food truck on Winchester Road in Southeast Memphis were robbed at gunpoint by two suspects driving a red SUV.
Less than 15 minutes later, police received a call about a shooting at Love’s Truck Stop on Lamar Avenue near the airport area. This incident left one man dead. Surveillance footage from the truck stop and accounts from a security guard at the scene provided critical evidence, including descriptions of the suspects and their vehicle.
The security guard described witnessing the victim hanging out of his car, a detail that underscores the violence of the crime.
Continued Crime Spree
The crime spree did not end there. A little after 5 AM, police were called back to the Exxon gas station on Winchester Road, where a driver reported being robbed by two people in a dark red vehicle while he was pumping gas. Police were able to obtain a partial tag from the vehicle, aiding their investigation.
Arrest and Investigation
On the afternoon of July 4th, at approximately 4:30 PM, officers spotted the stolen vehicle in the Oakhaven area. They initiated a traffic stop, but the driver and passenger attempted to flee on foot. During the pursuit, the passenger discarded a handgun. However, both Be As Mayor Head and the 13-year-old suspect were apprehended and taken into custody.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into this crime spree is ongoing. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence and piece together the sequence of events that led to these violent incidents. Be As Mayor Head is currently being held without bond, and his next court date is scheduled for Monday.
Community Impact
This string of violent crimes has left the Memphis community shaken. The fact that one of the suspects is only 13 years old has particularly resonated, highlighting concerns about youth involvement in violent crime. The community is grappling with the implications of these events and the broader issues of crime and safety in the area.
Surveillance and Evidence
Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts have been crucial in the investigation. The manager of Love’s Truck Stop shared surveillance videos that not only captured the shooting incident but also revealed a history of robberies in the area. This footage has provided invaluable leads for the police.
Police Response
The Memphis Police Department has been working diligently to respond to these incidents and bring those responsible to justice. Their swift action in identifying and apprehending the suspects has been a key part of the investigation. The use of surveillance footage, witness statements, and partial vehicle tags has enabled the police to track down the suspects despite the chaotic nature of the crime spree.
Legal Proceedings
As the legal proceedings move forward, both suspects will face serious charges in court. Be As Mayor Head’s upcoming court appearance will be a critical next step in the judicial process. The 13-year-old’s involvement adds a complex dimension to the case, raising questions about how juveniles are handled in the criminal justice system.
Conclusion
The violent crime spree that resulted in the murder of a man at a Memphis truck stop has left the community in shock. With two teenagers now charged, the focus shifts to the legal proceedings and the ongoing investigation. The Memphis Police Department’s efforts have been instrumental in apprehending the suspects, and the community will be closely watching as justice unfolds.
