Man Says Brother Was Shot While Protecting Children During Gunfire in Frayser

Man Says Brother Was Shot While Protecting Children During Gunfire in Frayser

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A man is recovering from critical injuries after he was reportedly shot while trying to shield children from gunfire during a violent encounter in Frayser on Saturday, according to the Memphis Police Department (MPD).

The incident occurred on Donna Drive on May 31, when chaos erupted in a quiet neighborhood as gunfire rang out near a residence where several children were playing. A police narrative obtained by FOX13 reveals a harrowing scene involving two suspected teenage gunmen and a man who put himself in harm’s way to protect the young lives around him.

According to the report, one man told police that he, his brother, and a group of children were gathered outside a home when two juveniles, estimated to be 13 or 14 years old, began shooting in their direction.

In a courageous act, the man said his brother ran toward the children to grab and shield them from the bullets. It was during that moment that the brother was shot in the back of the neck, sustaining critical injuries.

The man told officers that after his brother was hit, he returned fire in an attempt to protect the group and stop the shooters.

Although the man’s actions may have been in defense of others, responding officers issued him a city ordinance citation for discharging a firearm within city limits — a legal reminder of the city’s strict firearm regulations, even in life-threatening situations.

As of now, there is no word on arrests or charges against the suspected teenage shooters. MPD has not released additional details about the suspects or whether any charges will be filed.

The incident has shaken the Frayser community and reignited concerns about youth violence, gun access among minors, and the safety of neighborhoods where children should feel safe to play.

The critically injured man’s condition has not been updated, but his actions are being recognized by neighbors and loved ones as nothing short of heroic.

The Memphis Police Department continues to investigate the shooting and urges anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers at 528-CASH.