In the late afternoon of February 20, 2023, a dispute over child custody tragically escalated, ending the life of 22-year-old Tyeasha Kataria Starks in Jackson, Tennessee. A Black female and a biology major at Austin Peay State University, Starks had traveled from Clarksville to Jackson for a custody exchange involving her one-year-old son. The child's father, Bryce Currie, had indicated he could not care for their son on a previously agreed-upon day, which led to a heated argument.
Accompanied by two friends, Tyeasha arrived at the home where Bryce lived with his parents. As she approached the residence to retrieve her son, the situation intensified. Tyeasha was reportedly given a stun gun by a friend for protection. An argument ensued at the front of the house with the child's paternal grandfather, 44-year-old Tylus Currie. Accounts of what transpired next differ. Law enforcement stated that witnesses confirmed Tyeasha was actively 'arcing' the stun device when she was shot multiple times by Tylus Currie. However, friends who were present have contested this, stating she never pulled the stun gun out.
After being shot, Tyeasha managed to get back to her vehicle and attempted to drive away but crashed into a mailbox just a few doors down, where she succumbed to her injuries. The Madison County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene and began an investigation. Tylus Currie was identified as the shooter, but no formal charges have been filed against him. The case was turned over to the District Attorney General's office for review.
In the wake of the shooting, Tyeasha's family has been outspoken in their quest for justice, organizing protests and demanding accountability. They have raised concerns about the investigation and the fact that no arrest has been made. The custody and well-being of Tyeasha's young son, who remained in the care of his paternal family after the incident, has also been a significant point of contention for Starks's family as they continue to mourn her loss and fight for what they believe is justice for her death.
