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Articles by André Washington
Google to Build Billion-Dollar AI Data Center in West Memphis, Marking
Mayor Marco McClendon announced that Google plans to build an AI data center in West Memphis, Arkansas, describing it as "This is the biggest investment in the state of Arkansas’ history." The project is expected to employ around 300 people, with construction creating an additional 5,000 jobs. Mayor McClendon said, "This is very big for our community," referring to the economic impact of the investment, according to FOX13 Memphis.
Memphis Braces for Showers and Thunderstorms Before Sunday Sunshine,
The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued a weather update marking a shift in the area's climate conditions. Coverage details a nighttime forecast of showers and a possible thunderstorm with a steady temperature around 66 degrees, accompanied by a north wind near 10 mph. Chances of precipitation are pegged at 70%, with rain amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, though this could increase during thunderstorms.
Tennessee State Parks Enhance Accessibility with Additional Colorblind
Source: Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Tennessee State Parks are widening the landscape of accessibility with the installment of additional colorblind viewfinders. According to an announcement by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, these special lens-equipped viewfinders are now available at 12 locations, including the newly added T.O. Fuller State Park in Memphis and Roan Mountain State Park in Roan Mountain.
National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis to Honor Marc Morial, Velma
Source: Google Street View The National Civil Rights Museum has named its honorees for the 34th Annual Freedom Awards, encompassing individuals who have made influential contributions to civil and human rights. As reported by Action News 5, this year's recipients are Marc Morial, Velma Lois Jones, and Mark Suzman, with a special performance by singer Wendy Moten. The event is set to take place at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Memphis on October 16.
Man Fatally Shot in North Memphis, Police Seek Suspect in Red Hoodie
Tragedy struck early this morning in North Memphis, as a man was fatally shot on Eldridge Avenue. Action News 5 reported that the Memphis Police Department responded to the incident at 6:27 am, where they found the male victim, already dead from his wounds. According to the Memphis Police, the suspect was described as wearing a red hoodie and tan pants.
Horn Lake Animal Shelter Leadership Ousted, Director Suspects
Source: Google Street View The leadership of the Horn Lake Animal Shelter saw a drastic overhaul this past Tuesday, as both the director, Glenn Andrews, and the assistant director, Sonia Forgacz, were dismissed from their roles. In an abrupt conclusion to a nearly two-hour-long executive session, Horn Lake's Mayor and Board of Aldermen reached the decision by majority vote, as reported by FOX13 Memphis.
Teen Charged with Second-Degree Murder After Shooting in Frayser,
Source: Unsplash/ Max Fleischmann A tranquil afternoon was shattered by gunfire in Frayser, when a 16-year-old male was pronounced dead at the hospital following a shooting incident. The violence unfolded near the Family Tire Shop at 2731 Range Line Road around 1 p.m. yesterday, Fox13 Memphis reports. Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to the scene and subsequently detained two juveniles, one of whom, a 17-year-old, now faces a second-degree murder charge.
Munford Schools Conduct Intruder Drills in Coordination with Police to
Source: Facebook/Munford Police Department In an effort to reinforce preparedness measures in the event of an emergency, Munford's three schools underwent intruder drills this morning. According to a social media post by the Munford Police Department, which facilitated the drills, the exercises were purely precautionary and aimed at ensuring the readiness of students and faculty.
Memphis Police Seek Suspects in Armed Robbery at Mendenhall Road Gas
Memphis residents are on alert after a recent armed robbery at the Marathon Gas Station on 3156 Mendenhall Road. The incident occurred at about 8:15 p.m. on August 31, when three male suspects approached a victim who was filling his tires with air. According to a report by the Memphis Police Department, the victim was robbed at gunpoint of his wallet and keys. The assailants were driving a stolen black 2020 Kia Optima, which has since been recovered by authorities.
Former Memphis Officer Seeks Bond Reinstatement Amid Retrial for
Demetrius Haley, a former officer with the Memphis Police Department involved in the case surrounding the death of Tyre Nichols, has filed a motion to have his bond reinstated, which would allow for his release before an upcoming trial. Following the recusal of federal judge Mark S. Norris, Haley, alongside Tadarrius Bean and Justin Smith, successfully obtained the right for a new trial over questions of judicial impartiality.
Department of Interior's Dr. Ben Graham Opens Dyer County Fair Rodeo
Source: Dyer County Sheriff's Office The Dyer County community kicked off its annual fair with a little extra spirit this year. According to a social media post by the Dyer County Sheriff's Office, Dr. Ben Graham, the Department of the Interior's Faith Director, was invited to lead the invocation at the start of the "Wrangling on the River" rodeo event. Sheriff Box and the wider Dyer County community expressed their warm welcome during what they described as a beautiful night.
False Alarm at University of Memphis, Phoned-In Threat a Hoax, Campus
A phoned-in threat that prompted a swift police response at University of Memphis yesterday morning has been deemed a hoax, with local authorities and university officials taking quick measures to ensure the safety of the campus. As reported by WREG, Memphis Police said they found no victims and no evidence of a legitimate threat upon investigation.
Lakeland's Zadie Kuehl Park to Host "Pupapalooza in the Park" Adoption
Mark your calendars for a pawsome event at Zadie Kuehl Park on Saturday, October 11. Pupapalooza in the Park invites all dog lovers and those looking to increase their family by four paws to gather from 11 AM to 2 PM for a day dedicated to dog adoptions, support for local rescues, and community fun. According to the City of Lakeland's official announcement, the event will not just focus on finding forever homes for furry friends but also on celebrating the bonds between dogs and their humans.
Memphis Leaders Break Ground on First Home Field for Memphis Inner
Source: Google Street View Big news in sports and community development out of Memphis, as key figures from the city's education and government sector have teamed up with a local nonprofit organization. Yesterday, Mayor Lee Harris, Memphis Shelby County Schools Interim Superintendent Rod Richmond, and Chairman Michael Whaley were present for the groundbreaking ceremony of the first home field for Memphis Inner City Rugby (MICR).
Memphis Police Seek Public Help in Locating Fugitive Donna Locke
The Memphis Police Department is on the lookout for a wanted fugitive, identified as 48-year-old Donna Locke. She is currently sought on active felony warrants related to property theft and vandalism that has impacted the city's infrastructure and connectivity. According to a report by the MPD, Locke is accused of stealing copper wire valued between $1,000 and $2,500 and causing damage to critical infrastructure, with the cost of vandalism estimated to be between $2,500 and $10,000.
Memphis Police Seek Suspect After Aggravated Assault in Walter May
Memphis authorities are investigating an aggravated assault that occurred on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Walter May Park, located at 6415 Quince Road. According to a report by the Memphis Police Department, two sisters found themselves in a frightening encounter when a verbal argument at the park escalated sharply. The altercation began just before 11:00 p.m. when the two women became entangled in a dispute with another woman.
Memphis Area Transit Authority Halts CEO Search Amid Audit Revelations
Source: Google Street View The quest for a new chief at the helm of the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) has reached an abrupt halt, with the agency confirming the suspension of its CEO search "until further notice." This development, as confirmed to Action News 5, comes amid a period of heightened scrutiny over the public transit system's financial management.
Man Indicted for Vehicular Homicide by Intoxication in Memphis
The streets of Jackson Ave once echoed with the chaos of a 6-car crash that claimed a life. In a recent turn of events stretching over three years, Miron Robinson, the man indicted in connection with this tragic incident, has faced an ongoing battle with the law.
Collierville Firefighters Enhance Preparedness Through Partnership
Collierville's firefighters and EMS crews continue to up their game, thanks to ongoing partnerships within the local community. In a recently surfaced post by Collierville Fire & Rescue on social media, they remarked on an occasion "over two years ago" when they had the chance to conduct live training burns at a site off Bailey Station Road, made possible by partnerships with Orgill Corporation and Argo Construction, among others.
Memphis Faces Mixed Weather with Sunny Spells and Potential Showers,
Memphis residents should expect a week of changing weather patterns, according to the latest National Weather Service updates. The forecast indicates overcast skies with current temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and humidity at 57%. The barometric pressure is 30.17 in (1021.4 mb), and visibility is clear at 10 miles, indicating no immediate concerns for those heading out early in the day. The NWS warns of a 30 percent chance of showers overnight, with lows expected near 64°F.
Memphis Police Investigate Alleged Vehicle Theft Linked to DoorDash
A DoorDash delivery encounter turned into an alleged motor vehicle theft earlier this month. In the early hours of Sunday, August 10, at approximately 12:30 a.m., a female driver was reportedly captured on camera in a bold 'Barbie' shirt and multicolored hair cover, engaging in an act that has prompted a police investigation, according to the Memphis Police Department.
66-Year-Old Man Arrested, Charged with Aggravated Assault After
In a routine traffic stop that could have escalated into a tragic confrontation, a 66-year-old man was arrested after an altercation with Shelby County deputies late last Friday night. According to a post from City of Lakeland Law Enforcement Services - Shelby County Sheriff's Office, deputies stopped Lee Tate in the area of Canada Rd and Kingsridge Dr around 11:49 p.m. due to traffic violations.
Man Found Shot Dead in Vehicle at Cordova Strip Mall, Shelby County
A man was found shot and killed in a Cordova parking lot, the Shelby County Sheriff's Office said. He was inside his vehicle outside a smoke shop at a strip mall on the 1900 block of Berryhill Road. Deputies arrived around 5:40 p.m. and found him dead, according to WREG. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office has not identified any suspects in the case. They are asking the public for information and urge anyone who can help to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH, as reported by FOX13 Memphis.
Earle, Arkansas Welcomes Daylight with Blaze on Main Street as
Early this morning, residents of Earle, Arkansas, woke to the alarming sight of a fire that engulfed a building marked 'Welcome to Earle' on Main Street. While fire crews were quick to respond, the blaze represents more than just a local emergency; it underscores a larger distress within Earle, a small city located roughly 30 miles northwest of Memphis, Action News 5 reported.
Memphis Police Seek Public's Help in Identifying Suspects in
Memphis has witnessed a disturbing surge in crime, with the latest incident occurring on the night of August 14 in the 3400 block of Lamar Avenue. According to the Memphis Police Department, officers arrived on the scene at 11:48 p.m., following a report of a robbery and assault. The victim, who remains unnamed for privacy and safety reasons, was accosted by two suspects—a man and a woman—both believed to be in their mid-30s and described as tall.
Memphis Police Seek Public's Help Following Fatal Shooting in Parkway
Tragedy struck a Memphis community Tuesday evening when gunfire erupted in Parkway Village, resulting in one man's death and leaving another critically wounded. Action News 5 reports that the Memphis Police Department were summoned to the Oakridge Apartments in the 3500 block of Wingood Circle shortly before 8 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered one man dead from apparent gunshot wounds, while another was swiftly transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Shelby County Ramps Up Mosquito Control Efforts Amid West Nile Virus
Source: Wikipedia/Muhammad Mahdi Karim, GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons Following the outbreak of West Nile Virus in Shelby County with two reported human cases this year, the local health department is beefing up its Mosquito Control Program. The first case emerged in March, linked to travel abroad, and the latest one was confirmed just last week.
West Memphis Police Department Fires Four Officers Amid Sexual
Source: Google Street View West Memphis has dismissed four police officers following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. The West Memphis Police Department confirmed on Wednesday that Major Stacy Allen, Captain Mose Walker, Officer Treasure Gaither, and Officer Blake Forthman have been fired, as reported by Action News 5. The decision was effective as of Tuesday, August 12, and the department conveyed that it reflects the city's dedication to maintaining public trust.
Illinois Duo Suspected of $14K Merchandise Heist at Covington Walmart;
Source: Facebook/Covington Tennessee Police Department In the small town of Covington, Tennessee, a theft at a local Walmart has made headlines with an Illinois duo suspected of stealing over $14,000 in Apple AirPods and other electronic merchandise. According to the Covington Police Department, the incident occurred on August 13, 2025, when officers responded to a felony shoplifting report.
Memphis Police Nab Suspect Charged with Second-Degree Murder in Apple
The Memphis Police Department has reported the arrest of a homicide suspect by its Fugitive Unit. On the night of May 23, 2025, Memphis officers were called to the scene of a shooting on the 6000 block of Apple Tree Drive. The male victim, critically wounded, was rushed to the hospital but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The intensity of the investigation following the incident was met with a breakthrough in August.
Bartlett Fire Department Boosts Emergency Services with Advanced
The Bartlett Fire Department recently announced a significant enhancement to their emergency response capabilities. The crew has completed Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training, an essential component in providing critical medical care during emergencies. Sharing the news on social media, the department emphasized that this training is a step forward in their commitment to serve the community with the highest level of care.
Lake County Quadruple Murder Suspect Denied Contact with Girlfriend,
Austin Drummond, the man accused of killing four family members in Lake County, Tennessee, appeared before a judge today. During the court session, Drummond's request to contact his girlfriend, who is related to the victims, was denied as the judge refused to lift a restraining order in place. A future court date for Drummond is set for September 4, where he faces numerous charges, including four counts of first-degree murder and possession of a firearm as a felon, according to Action News 5.
Memphis Police Association Files Contempt Motion Against City, Alleges
Source: Google Street View The Memphis Police Association (MPA), the union representing city police officers, has escalated its legal confrontation with the City of Memphis. In the ongoing dispute over a police rank structure, the MPA has asked a Shelby County Circuit Court to hold the city in contempt for violating a court order, according to Action News 5.
Free Health Services and Family Fun at the Shelby County Community
Source: Memphis Parks The Shelby County Health Department is hosting a Community Care Fair at the Douglass Community Center on August 23rd, offering a range of valuable resources and programs to the public at no cost. Visitors can expect free, confidential HIV testing, access to opioid overdose prevention kits, and much more. The fair serves as a hub for health-related information and assistance, from navigating community health access to child car safety and violence prevention resources.
Memphis Shooter Ezekiel Kelly Pleads Guilty, Receives Three Life
Source: Shelby County Jail In a recent development regarding last year's gruesome shooting spree in Memphis, Ezekiel Kelly has pleaded guilty to a series of charges related to the tragic event. According to an announcement by the Shelby County District Attorney's Office, Kelly will serve three life sentences plus an additional 200 years without the possibility of parole.
Female Probationer Among Two Arrested, Substantial
An operation led by agents of the 28th District from Gibson County resulted in an arrest and significant drug seizure at a residence on Lee St. in Dyer, as cited from a West Tennessee Drug Task Force social media post. The raid that occurred two days prior uncovered more than two ounces of methamphetamine, approximately three ounces of marijuana, and other controlled substances, including nine gabapentin pills.
Millington Police Seek Public's Help to Locate Suspect Gabriel
The Millington Police has issued an alert seeking assistance in locating Gabriel Christopher, a man wanted for a series of severe crimes. In a recent social media post, the Millington Tennessee Police Department outlined the charges against Christopher, including aggravated assault, aggravated rape, and aggravated kidnapping. They have cautioned the public, warning that he should be considered armed and dangerous.
Memphis Braces for Sunshine Mixed with Showers and Soaring Heat, NWS
The National Weather Service in Memphis has delivered its detailed forecast for the coming days, and it’s looking like a mix of sunshine and potential showers, with high temperatures persisting in the region. Today, expect a "40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm" with sunny skies and a high near 95 degrees, as per the NWS forecast. Sunseekers will be pleased, but those weary of the swelter should take note of the heat index values, which could climb as high as 105.
Memphis Police Investigate MATA Bus Incident on E. Holmes Road Amid
Earlier today, a Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) bus became the unexpected recipient of damage during an incident initially reported as a hit-and-run. According to Action News 5, a piece of equipment from a lawn service truck struck the bus's mirror at the junction of East Holmes Road and Marynelle Street just after 7 a.m. No injuries were reported from the bus driver or the two passengers aboard at the time.
Shelby County Jail Inmate Charged with Aggravated Assault in Stabbing
Source: Shelby County Sheriff's Office An inmate at the Shelby County Jail known as 201 Poplar is facing charges after reportedly stabbing a fellow inmate multiple times with a homemade weapon. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has identified 28-year-old Kokou Sanoumeg as the alleged assailant in the attack last Wednesday, according to Action News 5. Sanoumeg has been charged with aggravated assault, possession of contraband, and faces additional pending charges.
Man Critically Injured in Early Morning Shooting at Orange Mound Motel
A shooting this morning in Orange Mound has left one man critically injured. The Memphis Police Department responded to the incident just before 4:40 a.m. on Lamar Avenue near Kimball Avenue, as reported by Action News 5. Police say the victim was transported to the hospital with severe injuries.
Germantown Fire Department Sets New Response Time Record, Elevates
The Germantown Fire Department (GFD) is setting new benchmarks in emergency response times, underscoring a commitment to efficiency and care for the community that goes beyond just extinguishing fires. In a recent social media post, GFD shared that their average response time since the start of the year is 5 minutes and 22 seconds, shaving off seconds from their 2024 average of 5 minutes and 27 seconds—numbers that proudly dip below national response time averages.
Shelby County Sheriff's Office Celebrates 28 New Corrections Deputies
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office has a new reason for celebration as it welcomes 28 fresh faces to its ranks. The new Corrections Deputies, graduates from Corrections Deputy Recruit Class #95, were recognized during a graduation ceremony held on Thursday at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. This ceremony marked the culmination of 13 weeks of dedication and rigorous training.
Fake Bills Spark Shutdown at Millington Kroger, No Threat Found After
Thursday's shopping routine at the Millington Kroger took a turn for the surreal as the store shuttered its doors, thrust into an unexpected drama due to the discovery of what appeared to be counterfeit money.
Convicted Felon Jason Autry Gets 228 Months for Firearms Offenses
Source: Tennessee Department of Correction The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has confirmed a sentence for a man with a heavy criminal background, according to an announcement from the Western District of Tennessee. Jason Autry, now 50 years old, will be returning to federal prison for 228 months following his conviction on firearms offenses.
Southaven Man Charged With Statutory Rape Amid Ongoing Child
Source: Southaven Police Department Jonathan Pummill, a 59-year-old Southaven, Mississippi resident, finds himself under the scrutiny of the law for the second time in less than a month, this time facing graver accusations that involve crimes against children, as reported by DeSoto County News.
Shelby County Mother Testifies Being Held Hostage with Toddler,
In an unsettling revelation, a woman has testified that she and her 1-year-old son were held hostage by a man demanding $6,000 in ransom. Details of the harrowing experience came to light during a Shelby County court session, where the victim recounted the ordeal. The defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed, is accused of a violent shakedown that involved the physical abuse of both the victim and her young child.
Memphis Set to Purchase Sheraton Downtown in $52 Million Deal to
Source: Google Street View After months of discussions, the City of Memphis is on track to close its deal to acquire the Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel, a deal valued at $22 million but bolstered by an additional $30 million in bonds. The purchase aims to revitalize the largest hotel in the city, which has fallen into disrepair, impacting surrounding businesses and the Renasant Convention Center.
Memphis Police Seek Public's Help Identifying Suspect in Daylight
Residents of the 1800 block of York Avenue were confronted with a brazen daylight burglary on August 4, when, according to the Memphis Police Department's report, a suspect forced entry into a home at around 3:40 p.m. and absconded with various items. The individual, identified as a Black male clothed in a blue shirt, white and blue striped shorts, and donning a white face mask, was caught on camera while committing the crime.
Memphis Embraces Sunny Skies and Warm Temperatures in Late Summer
The National Weather Service in Memphis reports that today's weather will bring sunny skies, with a comfortable high near 92 degrees, after a fair start this morning at 73°F. The calm conditions feature light winds becoming northeast at around 5 mph in the afternoon. As the city embraces another August day, the forecast promises stable and warm weather, a staple of late summer in the region.
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