**MEMPHIS, Tenn. — July 14, 2025 – A 27-year-old Memphis man, Tajee Turnage, is in custody facing first-degree murder charges following a deadly shooting in the Messick Buntyn neighborhood early Sunday morning. The incident, which claimed the life of Timothy Echols, stemmed from a volatile domestic dispute that escalated into gunfire, leaving a community shaken and authorities piecing together the events.
**The Incident
At approximately 1:15 a.m. on July 13, 2025, Memphis Police Department officers responded to a shooting call in the 3400 block of Southern Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered Timothy Echols suffering from multiple gunshot wounds near railroad tracks in the area. Echols was rushed to Regional One Health in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Tajee Turnage, the suspect, was present at the scene when police arrived and was taken into custody.
**Events Leading to the Shooting
According to police reports, the incident was preceded by a heated domestic dispute involving Turnage’s roommate, a woman who was in a relationship with Echols. The altercation began earlier that night when the woman attempted to leave a location in her vehicle. She reported to police that Echols, after an argument, took a black handgun belonging to Turnage from his bedroom and fired multiple shots at her vehicle as she tried to flee. She also alleged that Echols physically assaulted her, striking her in the face during the confrontation.
Fearing for her safety, the woman drove to C.W. Davis Park near Prescott Street and Carnes Avenue, where her vehicle became disabled due to the damage sustained. She then contacted Turnage via FaceTime, informing him that Echols had stolen his gun, fired at her car, and assaulted her. She shared her live location with Turnage as she began walking along Carnes Avenue.
**Turnage’s Response
Turnage, who was working as an armed security guard at an apartment complex at the time, told police he witnessed parts of the altercation through the FaceTime call, including hearing gunshots and seeing Echols strike his roommate. After receiving her location, Turnage left his workplace and drove to the area near Southern Avenue. According to the affidavit, upon confronting Echols, Turnage struck him multiple times before retrieving his stolen firearm from Echols’ vehicle. The exact circumstances of the fatal shooting remain under investigation, with police yet to clarify whether Echols was armed at the time of the confrontation.
Turnage cooperated with authorities at the scene, waiving his rights and providing a full statement to police. Video footage from the area was also collected, though specific details about its contents have not been released.
**Legal Proceedings**
Tajee Turnage has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently held without bond at the Shelby County Jail. He is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities exploring the possibility of additional charges related to the initial assault, firearms violations, or other factors. Police are also seeking witnesses who may have observed the altercation or events leading up to the shooting.
**Community Concerns**
This tragic incident underscores the devastating consequences of domestic disputes and gun violence in Memphis. The city has seen a troubling rise in such cases, prompting renewed discussions about the need for conflict resolution programs, mental health resources, and stricter measures to address gun-related incidents. Community leaders and residents continue to call for solutions to prevent similar tragedies, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and responsible firearm ownership.
**Call for Information**
The Memphis Police Department urges anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details can contact Memphis CrimeStoppers anonymously at 901-528-CASH (2274). Tips could prove critical in clarifying the sequence of events and ensuring justice for all involved.
**A Community in Mourning**
The loss of Timothy Echols has left a profound impact on those who knew him, while Tajee Turnage faces serious legal consequences. The woman at the center of the dispute, Turnage’s roommate, is grappling with the trauma of the assault and the violent aftermath. As Memphis processes yet another senseless act of violence, the community mourns and seeks ways to heal and prevent future tragedies.
Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this heartbreaking event.
