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Autopsy Contradicts Claims in Tennessee Guard Shooting

8/28/2026

45 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Tennessee Guard Shooting

Tennessee National Guard members shot 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson in Memphis on July 5, 2026.
Autopsy found a single bullet entered his right back and exited his upper right chest.
Attorney Andre Wharton said the autopsy contradicts police claims Johnson turned toward troops with a gun.
Senators London Lamar and Raumesh Akbari demanded transparency and accountability for the Guard members.

Summary

Memphis Residents Protest

Memphis residents staged protests demanding the July 5 surveillance video of the shooting be released.
Governor Bill Lee praised the Guard’s work but called for stricter member-selection oversight.
Johnson was released on a $4,500 bond with a July 8 hearing.
Records show Johnson had only misdemeanor traffic violations and a pending warrant.
Local activists say the Guard’s presence heightens tensions instead of lowering crime rates.

History

Historical Context

On May 4 1970, the Ohio National Guard fired roughly 67 rounds at a Kent State University protest against the Cambodian incursion, killing four students and wounding nine. The incident spurred nationwide student strikes involving over 4 million participants and led the Nixon administration to create the Scranton Commission, which recommended ending lethal rifle use by guardsmen.

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Tennessee Guard Shooting

Tennessee National Guard members shot 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson in Memphis on July 5, 2026.
Autopsy found a single bullet entered his right back and exited his upper right chest.
Attorney Andre Wharton said the autopsy contradicts police claims Johnson turned toward troops with a gun.
Senators London Lamar and Raumesh Akbari demanded transparency and accountability for the Guard members.

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