In Memphis, Tennessee, on the evening of October 10, 2017, a dispute that began with an argument escalated into a street brawl that would tragically claim the life of 18-year-old Roydaris Collins. A student at Southwest Tennessee Community College and a former basketball player at Melrose High School, Collins was remembered by his loved ones as a promising student and athlete.
The altercation involved Collins and a group of other young men who reportedly attacked Alfonzo Kendricks following a disagreement with Kendricks' aunt.
During the chaotic physical encounter, Kendricks managed to break free from his attackers. However, Collins pursued him, and in the ensuing struggle, Kendricks fired a weapon, striking Collins in the neck. Despite being rushed to the Regional Medical Center, Collins succumbed to his injuries several days later. The incident was further complicated by the presence of an unidentified third person who, from across the street, fired shots that hit Kendricks in his left hip. To this day, the identity of this individual remains unknown, and no charges have been filed in connection with their actions.
In the months that followed the fatal shooting, the Memphis Police Department investigated the case, and an arrest warrant was issued for Alfonzo Kendricks. He was eventually taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder in connection with Roydaris Collins' death. During the investigation, Kendricks initially denied having a weapon on the night of the incident. However, police stated they had evidence indicating he had fired at Collins at least twice. The resolution of the legal proceedings against Alfonzo Kendricks, including the outcome of any trial or a potential plea agreement, has not been publicly reported, leaving a final chapter in this tragic story unwritten.
