Memphis, Tennessee – The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has announced that they will seek to prosecute a 17-year-old involved in the fatal shooting of a Memphis Police Department officer as an adult. The District Attorney’s Office is pursuing multiple charges against the teenager, including Criminal Attempt First Degree Murder, Assault Against First Responder, and Aggravated Assault. A murder charge has not been filed at this time due to indications that Officer Joseph McKinney may have been killed by friendly fire.
In a statement released by the D.A.’s Office, they emphasized that while friendly fire may have been involved, they believe the teenager’s actions were ultimately responsible for Officer McKinney’s tragic death. The charges against the teenager also include Theft of Property, Possession of a Firearm During a Dangerous Felony, Possession of a Prohibited Weapon, and Evading Arrest. If convicted, the teenager could face a maximum sentence of 400 years.
The shooting incident on April 12 resulted in the death of 18-year-old Jaylen Lobley, another suspect involved in the altercation. Police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle and encountered Lobley and the 17-year-old suspect, who opened fire on the officers. In the exchange of gunfire, Lobley was fatally shot by officers. Previously, it was believed that Officer McKinney was shot by one of the suspects.
Police Chief C.J. Davis expressed condolences for Officer McKinney’s death and highlighted the violent nature of the encounter that led to the tragic outcome. Two other officers were injured in the shooting, but have since been released from the hospital. The 17-year-old suspect remains in critical condition. The investigation into the incident is being conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations.
In response to the new information, Jaylen Lobley’s mother asserted her son’s innocence, stating that she was confident he did not shoot at the officers. She expressed disappointment that no one, including the Memphis Police Department, had approached her to discuss the situation. The community continues to mourn the loss of Officer McKinney and support his family during this difficult time.