A late-night car theft attempt turned into a shooting incident at the popular TJ Mulligan’s sports bar in Midtown, Memphis, on Monday. The event unfolded in the vicinity of Madison Avenue, a bustling area known for its shopping and dining spots, just before midnight. The Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to the situation, which began when a security guard at the bar observed suspicious activity outside.
The Beginning of the Incident
The security guard, stationed at TJ Mulligan’s, was alerted when a woman entering the restaurant informed him about a group of individuals attempting to break into cars parked outside. Upon investigation, the security guard witnessed a group of men dressed in black and wearing ski masks trying to break into a vehicle. Realizing what was happening, he immediately confronted the group. However, instead of fleeing, one of the suspects opened fire in his direction, using what was described as a high-powered weapon.
The Security Guard’s Response
Undeterred by the threat, the security guard returned fire. Fortunately, the guard was unharmed in the exchange of gunfire, and the group of suspects fled the scene. They left in a black Infiniti car with temporary tags, driving away from the location quickly after the confrontation. No injuries were reported from the incident at TJ Mulligan’s, and it was deemed a narrow escape for the security guard.
The Investigation and Further Incidents
In a tense twist, just under two hours later and less than two miles away, MPD was investigating another potential car theft attempt at the Galloway Apartments on Galloway Avenue. Officers responded to a call reporting that four men were attempting to break into a vehicle. Upon arriving, police officers saw one man fleeing the scene and discovered a silver Kia left running with the door ajar.
Neighbors in the area were on edge after hearing about the attempted break-in. While they expressed their concern, they also showed gratitude that the situation had not escalated further, resulting in physical harm. One local resident shared her disappointment, calling the attempted theft an invasion of privacy for the community. She mentioned that while their neighborhood was generally peaceful and tight-knit, incidents like these were a stark reminder of the need to stay vigilant.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The security guard’s brave actions and the community’s cooperation were highlighted in the wake of the incidents. While both car theft attempts and the shooting at TJ Mulligan’s left residents and local authorities rattled, the collective response from residents showed a sense of unity and concern for one another. The neighborhood’s close-knit nature meant that news of the events spread quickly, with residents supporting one another and staying informed on what had happened.
Despite the immediate dangers faced by the security guard and the possibility of a connection between the two car theft attempts, the MPD has yet to confirm any direct link between the incidents. The investigation continues as authorities try to piece together the details of these events and determine whether the two occurrences were related.
The Aftermath
Though no injuries were sustained during the shooting, both incidents left the community feeling uneasy. The attempted car break-ins, paired with the escalation to gun violence, have made residents reconsider their sense of security in the area. However, the timely and coordinated response by the police and the vigilance of the community were seen as positive aspects in an otherwise unsettling event.
This incident highlights the potential for everyday events, such as car thefts, to spiral into dangerous confrontations. While both the MPD and residents are working to ensure the safety of the area, the unsettling reality of such violence has left its mark on this otherwise peaceful neighborhood.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that justice will prevail, and the safety measures around popular areas such as Madison Avenue and the Overton Square area will be strengthened to prevent further incidents like this from occurring.
