Autopsy shows National Guard fatally shot Memphis man in the back
A bullet fired by members of the Tennessee National Guard entered the back of 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson, pierced his lung and killed him, an autopsy report shows, contradicting the initial account given by officials.
An autopsy report reveals that 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson was fatally shot in the back by members of the Tennessee National Guard on 5 July in Memphis. This contradicts initial statements from authorities, who claimed Johnson was shot in the chest after facing the guards with a gun. The autopsy, conducted by the West Tennessee Regional Forensic Center Office of the Medical Examiner, found that a single bullet entered Johnson's back on the right side and exited through his upper right chest.
His family is demanding accountability, with Tyrin's grandfather Evaniel demanding justice and accountability from the National Guard. Johnson's lawyer, Andre Wharton, stated that the autopsy findings highlight serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding Johnson's shooting and the encounter with the Memphis Safe Task Force.
The cause of death was listed as "homicide," but no criminal charges have been filed. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, in response to conflicting findings, referred to its original statement, stating that the investigation remains active and ongoing, and that reports of Johnson turning and pointing a gun at the National Guardsmen were not distributed by the TBI.
Tennessee State Representative Justin Pearson called for an investigation and criticized the Memphis Safe Task Force, stating "Johnson should be alive today" and expressing his belief that the National Guard is not welcome in Memphis.
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