A man was shot by authorities on Monday afternoon after allegedly opening fire at a Jewish school in Memphis, Tennessee. The incident occurred at the Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. While no one was injured at the school, the suspect was taken to a local hospital in critical condition. Authorities are now investigating the motive behind the incident and whether it could be classified as a hate crime.
Memphis police were alerted to the situation at the Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South around 12:20 p.m. ET. According to Memphis Police Assistant Chief Don Crowe, an armed man attempted to enter the school but was unable to gain access. Frustrated, the suspect fired shots outside the building. Thankfully, no one was harmed within the school premises.
School officials promptly provided the police with a photo and description of the suspect’s maroon-colored Dodge Ram pickup truck. Shortly after, Memphis police officers located a vehicle matching the description and stopped the driver. The suspect came out of the truck with a gun in hand and was subsequently shot by an officer. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Authorities are investigating the shooter’s motive and whether the suspect had any connection to the school. It is too early to determine if the incident will now be classified as a hate crime. US Rep. Steve Cohen, who represents the Memphis area, revealed that the shooter is Jewish and a former student of the school. However, the source of this information has not been disclosed.
The investigation is being led by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. They are also receiving assistance from the FBI, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bartlett Police Department. Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis commended the quick response of the officers, stating that they effectively mitigated a potential mass shooting situation. The chief also expressed gratitude to neighboring jurisdictions for their critical information that aided in stopping the suspect’s actions.
The Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South caters to students from pre-K through 12th grade, offering both day and boarding school programs. The incident, described as “personal in nature” by a spokesperson from the Secure Community Network, has raised concerns within the community.