In the winter of 2022, Markeith Taylor, a 34-year-old Black man, lost his life in a burst of gunfire in North Memphis. The fatal encounter took place on December 21 in the 600 block of Wells Avenue. According to accounts from the scene, four men arrived in an SUV and stopped near a vacant lot. One of the men, identified as Daniel Bates, also known as the rapper Mac Critter, called out to Taylor, who then walked over to the group.
As Markeith Taylor approached, all four men reportedly
drew handguns. One of the individuals, later identified as Gary Taylor, opened fire on Markeith, shooting him multiple times, even after he had fallen to the ground. Markeith Taylor was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the wake of the shooting, an investigation led to the identification of three suspects: Gary Taylor, Daniel Bates, and Danterio Owens. Gary Taylor was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The investigation suggested that Gary Taylor was a member of a gang.
The legal proceedings took an unexpected turn when, due to a process error, Gary Taylor was released on his own recognizance on December 31, 2022. This decision was not made with the involvement of the Shelby County District Attorney's Office, which later clarified that such a release for a first-degree murder charge was a mistake and not standard procedure. The error was rectified, and a warrant was issued for his re-arrest. Gary Taylor appeared for his court date and was taken back into custody with his bond revoked. The District Attorney's office affirmed its commitment to vigorously prosecute the case. The incident has drawn considerable attention and frustration from the community and the family of Markeith Taylor, who continue to seek justice.
