NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 28, 2026Hillsborough
Autopsy report contradicts official account of Tennessee National Guard fatal shooting in Memphis
An autopsy report indicates that 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson was shot in the back by Tennessee National Guard members, contradicting initial police statements that claimed he was facing the troops when they fired. The incident occurred in Memphis during a federal anti-crime task force operation, and the investigation into the shooting remains open.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
The discrepancy between official law enforcement accounts and forensic evidence regarding the use of lethal force by federalized troops raises questions about accountability and transparency in the Memphis Safe Task Force operations.
Key Facts
- An autopsy report shows Tyrin Johnson was shot in the back, with the bullet exiting through his upper right chest.
- The autopsy indicates the bullet had an upward trajectory, consistent with the victim running away from the shooter.
- Forensic analysis suggests the shot was fired from a distance of more than 3 feet (0.91 meters) due to the absence of gunpowder residue.
- Initial police and Guard reports stated Johnson turned toward troops and pointed a handgun at them.
- The Tennessee National Guard members involved were using M17 service handguns.
- The manner of death is officially listed as 'homicide' by the medical examiner.
- No criminal charges have been filed against the Guard members involved in the shooting.
- The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation describes the case as an 'open and ongoing' investigation.
- The family has not been provided with surveillance video of the incident.
- Johnson was found carrying a handgun magazine with rounds, which is not illegal in Tennessee.
Who's Mentioned
personDonald Trump“Former President who deployed the task force to Memphis.”personEvaniel Johnson“Grandfather of Tyrin Johnson and former correctional officer.”other0.91“Distance in meters from which the shot was likely fired.”organizationTennessee Bureau of Investigation“The agency currently conducting the open investigation.”personTyrin Johnson“The 20-year-old man who was fatally shot by National Guard members.”organizationMemphis Safe Task Force“A federal anti-crime task force created by President Donald Trump.”personAndre Wharton“Attorney representing the Johnson family.”organizationWest Tennessee Regional Forensic Center“The office that prepared the autopsy report.”organizationTennessee National Guard“The military unit involved in the fatal shooting while assigned to a federal tas”