MEMPHIS, Tenn. — July 14, 2025 –A 27-year-old man is behind bars following a tragic shooting that left one man dead in the early hours of Sunday morning in the Messick Buntyn neighborhood of Memphis. Tajee Turnage, a Memphis resident, has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly shooting and killing Timothy Echols in what authorities say was a violent and chaotic series of events fueled by domestic tensions and an escalating confrontation.
What Happened
At approximately 1:15 a.m. on Sunday, Memphis Police officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 3400 block of Southern Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a man—later identified as Timothy Echols—suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to Regional One Health in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
What Led to the Shooting?
According to investigators, the events leading up to the fatal shooting began earlier in the night. Police say Turnage’s roommate, a woman who was reportedly in a relationship with Echols, was attempting to leave a location with her vehicle when she got into an argument with Echols.
During the confrontation, the woman told officers that Echols retrieved a firearm belonging to Turnage from inside Turnage’s bedroom and began firing multiple rounds at her vehicle as she tried to flee the scene. Fearing for her life, she managed to drive to C.W. Davis Park near Prescott Street and Carnes Avenue, where her car ultimately became disabled.
Once there, she called Turnage via FaceTime, reportedly telling him what had happened—that Echols had stolen his gun, fired at her vehicle, and physically assaulted her. She also claimed that Echols punched her in the face during their altercation. She then shared her live location via phone with Turnage as she began walking on Carnes Avenue.
Turnage’s Account
Turnage told police he was working as an armed security guard at an apartment complex when he received the FaceTime call from his roommate. He said he saw and heard the argument unfold via the call, including the gunshots and the alleged assault. He then made his way to the location she shared.
Turnage was reportedly at the scene when officers arrived and did not flee. His cooperation and the evidence collected at the scene led to his arrest on charges of first-degree murder.
Police have not yet confirmed how the confrontation between Turnage and Echols escalated once they came face to face, nor have they said whether Echols was armed at the time he was shot. Those details may emerge as the investigation progresses and more witness statements are gathered.
Ongoing Investigation
Turnage remains in custody as of Monday, and authorities have not announced any bond. The case remains under active investigation. Additional charges could be filed depending on the findings, including any potential firearms violations or charges related to the initial assault and shooting.
Officials urge anyone who may have seen or heard the altercation to contact Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274). Tips can be submitted anonymously and may help clarify outstanding details in this rapidly evolving case.
Community Impact
This tragedy is yet another sobering reminder of how quickly domestic disputes can turn fatal—especially when firearms are involved. The shooting has left one man dead, another facing life-altering criminal charges, and a young woman caught in the middle of a traumatic and violent ordeal.
As the Memphis community grapples with rising incidents of gun violence and domestic conflict, this incident adds to the growing calls for greater resources around conflict resolution, mental health support, and responsible gun ownership.
Our thoughts are with all families and individuals impacted by this heartbreaking event.
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