Autopsy Shows Memphis Man Shot in Back by National Guard During July Foot Chase

An autopsy obtained by The Commercial Appeal revealed that Tyrion Johnson, 20, died from a gunshot wound that entered the right side of his back and exited the upper right chest during a foot chase in downtown Memphis on July 5. The wound showed no stippling, soot or muzzle imprint, indicating the shot was fired from a distance. The cause and manner of death were ruled homicide, though the report noted that a homicide ruling does not automatically imply criminal conduct.

The incident occurred shortly before 4 a.m. when National Guard members and Memphis police responded to a shots-fired call. Officials said they pursued an armed male carrying a handgun. Two Guard members fired, but the autopsy documented only one bullet wound. The report listed a handgun magazine with rounds among Johnson’s personal effects but did not confirm the presence of a firearm. Toxicology tests found no drugs or alcohol in his system.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is conducting an ongoing investigation, and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has not yet decided whether to file charges against the Guard members. A Guard spokesperson previously said the unit was deployed as part of the Memphis Safe Task Force, a program created in 2022 to address crime in the city. The shooting is the fourth incident involving the task force in Memphis, including three fatal shootings.

"We’re going to make Memphis safe again," President Donald Trump said when announcing the task force.

The National Guard has not responded to requests for comment.