Tennessee Guardsmen Provide Critical Aid During Shootings

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Tennessee National Guardsmen with the Memphis Safe Task Force, and the Memphis Police Department, responded to two separate shootings across Memphis on April 16, providing immediate medical aid to multiple gunshot victims.

At approximately 4:30 p.m., Guardsmen from the 278th Cavalry Regiment alongside Memphis Police responded to a shooting at a Southeast Memphis shopping center on Knight Arnold Road. Soldiers provided immediate first aid and identified gunshot wounds to three victims. Working side-by-side with Memphis Police Department and Emergency Medical Services, Guardsmen helped stop heavy bleeding and kept the victims breathing, stabilizing each individually for transport to a local hospital.

Immediately following the response on Knight Arnold Road, the Guardsmen responded to a second shooting at an East Memphis apartment complex near Stribling Streat with the Memphis Police Department. When they arrived, the Guardsmen identified one victim critically injured with multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. They worked to control bleeding and provided further aid, stabilizing the victim until Emergency Medical Services arrived and transported them to a local hospital.

Following both incidents, additional Guardsmen remained on scene to support responding officers, secure the crime scene, take witness statements, and search for evidence.

"Our Guardsmen were there and ready when it mattered most," said Lt. Col. Jimmie Holland, commander of the 278th Cavalry Regiment. "In both situations, they stepped in immediately to provide critical care and support our local partners."

The Tennessee National Guard continues supporting the Memphis Safe Task Force in partnership with local law enforcement and is always ready to help our fellow citizens.