In a tragic event that unfolded in Southwest Memphis, 53-year-old Ellen Grandberry, an African American woman, was found deceased on December 16, 2024. She and her childhood friend, Sharon Wilson, were discovered inside a bullet-riddled car on Manson Road. Grandberry was a well-regarded master hairstylist and the proprietor of the 'One In A Million Hair Salon.'
Her death sent shockwaves through the community that knew her for her vibrant personality and contributions to the local beauty industry. A mother to three boys, she was remembered by friends as a creative and giving individual.
The investigation into the double homicide led authorities to a residence on Grosvenor Avenue, where they were conducting a separate investigation into a car theft ring. During a search of the property, investigators found stolen vehicles, drugs, and multiple firearms. Ballistics testing linked some of the recovered weapons to the murders of Grandberry and Wilson. This discovery connected the two seemingly separate criminal activities and led to a significant breakthrough in the case.
Within days of the discovery of the women's bodies, two suspects were taken into custody. Desmond Emery, 21, and Jonathan Rush, 22, were arrested and subsequently charged in connection with the deaths. Both men face charges of first-degree murder. Rush, who was a convicted felon, also faces a charge of being in possession of a firearm. The arrests brought a small measure of relief to a community mourning the loss of two of its members, as the legal process to bring those responsible to justice began.
