Gunshots, crash at East Memphis strip mall after alleged car thieves caught in the act
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A technician at an East Memphis nail salon says he heard gunshots and witnessed a car crash after employees and patrons at the Happy Mexican tried to stop someone trying to break into a vehicle in the middle of the afternoon.
It happened Sunday at a strip mall in the 6000 block of Primacy Parkway near a SkyCop camera.
Police said witnesses were able to stop the suspects, who arrived in two stolen vehicles, from stealing the black Infiniti QX60, but the suspects fired shots toward the group and crashed into a red pickup as they were fleeing the scene.
No one was hurt, but Timmy Nguyen with VIP Nails & Spa said he saw people running for cover. The police report lists ten victims.
“They were moving, yeah, everyone at the restaurant was moving. Turn back in the restaurant,” said Nguyen.
The suspects left behind one of their vehicles. Police believe the same individuals were responsible for a vehicle theft a short time later at the Little Ceasars in the 5000 block of Park Avenue and stole a 2019 black Infiniti Q50 a day later from outside World Finance on North McLean Boulevard.
MPD said on Tuesday officers spotted a blue Infiniti involved in the shooting at the Happy Mexican in the area of Knight Arnold Road at Knightway Road.
Police said they attempted to stop the car, and three people bailed out near Interstate 240 West and Airways Boulevard.
Suspects shoot at diners at East Memphis restaurant while breaking into cars: MPD
Markaveon Walker and Murdock Britt were taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit. Investigators are still looking for the third suspect.
Walker, 19, was charged with theft of property, evading arrest in a vehicle, and evading arrest on foot.
Britt, 27, was charged with theft of property and evading arrest on foot.
If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.
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