In the autumn of 2020, the life of a young boy was tragically cut short on the streets of Memphis, Tennessee. Twelve-year-old Ta’Shun Hardrick, an African American male, was fatally wounded in a drive-by shooting on November 4th. The incident occurred in a North Memphis neighborhood as he was walking home from a local corner store.
Remembered as a well-liked boy who enjoyed riding his bike and spending time with his friends, Ta'Shun was a student at Humes Middle School.
His youth football coach described him as a comedian who brought joy to his teammates. His sudden and violent death sent shockwaves through his family and the community, highlighting the persistent issue of gun violence in the city.
In the immediate aftermath, the Memphis Police Department began an investigation into the shooting. They announced that a red, four-door car was potentially involved in the incident and appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of those responsible for Ta'Shun's death.
Despite the police investigation and pleas for witnesses to come forward, no arrests have been made in the case. The shooting that ended Ta’Shun Hardrick’s life remains unsolved, one of a number of child homicides that year in Memphis where the perpetrators have not been brought to justice. His family and community continue to await answers and closure in the senseless loss of a young life.
