On September 18, 2023, Martavious Pryor, a 24-year-old Black male, was at a Valero gas station on Airways Boulevard in Memphis, Tennessee, when his life was tragically cut short. According to his mother, Dedrus Peterson, her son was with an individual he considered a friend. This person allegedly robbed Pryor and then shot him in the back of the head.
Pryor was rushed to a hospital but ultimately succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The aftermath of this violent act left his family grappling with immense grief and unexpected financial hardship. His mother, who has eleven other children, faced challenges in affording a proper burial for her son. The family's church eventually stepped in to assist with the costs of cremation. Peterson also struggled with household expenses, worried about keeping the electricity on for her family while mourning the loss of her child.
The investigation into Martavious Pryor's murder is ongoing. His mother has expressed frustration with the lack of progress in the case, especially since there was a witness to the shooting. She lamented her son's trusting nature, believing it was what ultimately led to his untimely death. As of the most recent reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide. The Memphis Police Department continues to seek information from the public, urging anyone with knowledge of the shooting to contact CrimeStoppers.
