MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Two more shootings within hours of each other on Monday showcased why there’s increasing concern over violent crime in Memphis.
The first shooting happened at a gas station at Ridgeway and Knight Arnold around 2 p.m.
People were getting gas when police said someone opened fire feet from the front door.
The victim drove away to a nearby car wash to call police. He’s expected to be okay.
The shooter has yet to be caught.
The gas station sits right next to a school.
WREG watched as parents and young children weaved through the crime scene while police gathered evidence.
“No where is a safe place at all,” said parent Carmen Garcia.
The second shooting happened hours later.
Another man was shot on Keltner Circle in the airport area.
Witnesses said someone fired several shots from a car striking a construction worker.
He’s in critical condition while the shooter is on the run.
“As they shot him, they pulled off backwards hitting a car,” said a witness.
The violence seems never-ending.
So far this year, more than 60 people have been killed in Memphis.
Right now, the city is on track to record 240 homicides and breaking a record for the most murders in Memphis in one year.
While police are increasing patrols where crimes have occurred, Councilman Phillip Spinosa has his own idea to fight back.
He hopes to put 70 new Sky Cop cameras in neighborhoods across the city.
Crime stats would decide where they go, but each council district would split them evenly.
“I don’t think cameras are going to solve all the problems, but I think they are going to help create safer neighborhoods, and help efficiently and effectively deploy officers on the streets,” said Spinosa.
Keep in mind, the plan for the Sky Cop cameras is still in the early stages. It’s expected to be brought up during committee meetings Tuesday.
MPD has said statistics show the cameras deter crime.
