In the early morning hours of a Sunday in South Memphis, the life of 47-year-old Marlanda Vann was tragically cut short in what her family has described as a senseless act of violence. On September 14, 2025, near the intersection of South Parkway East and South Main Street, Vann was shot and killed while inside her vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing a red pickup truck following her before the driver opened fire into her car.
The suspect was described as a Black man.
Known affectionately as 'Coco' by her loved ones, Marlanda was a devoted mother to six children and a doting grandmother to fifteen. Her family remembers her as being full of life and someone who always had a smile on her face. Her sudden and violent death has left her family and the community heartbroken and searching for answers. In the wake of her passing, family and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil and balloon release to honor her memory and to make a public plea for justice.
The investigation into Marlanda Vann's death is ongoing, and as of now, no arrests have been made. The Memphis Police Department is actively searching for the suspect and the red pickup truck seen at the scene. Her family has started a GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral expenses as they navigate the immense grief of their loss. Her brother has spoken out about the pain the family is enduring and their concern for the many loved ones she left behind, emphasizing the significant loss they have all suffered.
