Domestic Violence-Linked Shooting Leaves Two Dead, One Critically Injured on Cleoford Avenue in Memphis
MEMPHIS, TN – A tragic domestic violence-related shooting has claimed the lives of two people and left a third in critical condition in the Frayser neighborhood of Memphis. The Memphis Police Department is actively investigating the violent incident, which unfolded late Tuesday evening on the 1700 block of Cleoford Avenue.
A Night of Horror in Frayser
At approximately 8:03 p.m., Memphis Police officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire near a residential area on Cleoford Avenue. When officers arrived on the scene, they found three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Tragically, two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene. A third victim was rushed to Regional One Health, where they remain in critical condition.
The deceased have been identified as Michael Ellington Jr., and a woman named Jasmine. Their relationship to each other or to the suspect has not been fully detailed, though authorities have confirmed the case involves domestic violence.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeals for Help
Authorities have not released the identity of the suspect, though they have confirmed the individual has been identified. As of this report, it is unclear whether the suspect has been apprehended.
“This is a devastating example of the deadly consequences of domestic violence,” said MPD spokesperson Lt. Carla Benton. “Two lives are gone, another hangs in the balance, and an entire community is shaken.”
Investigators have canvassed the area and are appealing to the public for help. Residents with home security cameras or anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity are strongly urged to come forward.
“As Mayor Paul Young said just last week, enough is enough,” the Memphis Police Department wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “We must stand together in the face of tragedy. If you witnessed anything or live in this area and have cameras – please, we need your help. Your info could be the key to helping us find answers.”
The neighborhood, located in the northern sector of the city, has grappled with violence in recent years, but this particular incident has deeply unsettled the community due to its domestic nature and the loss of multiple lives.
Victims Remembered
Little is currently known about Michael Ellington Jr. and Jasmine beyond their identities, but friends and neighbors have started leaving flowers and notes outside the home where the shooting occurred.
“Michael was a kind person. Always kept to himself, never saw this coming,” said one neighbor who requested anonymity. “He didn’t deserve this. None of them did.”
Family members of Jasmine described her as “a light in every room” and “a devoted mother and daughter.” A relative who spoke briefly to local reporters asked for privacy but urged others experiencing domestic violence to seek help before tragedy strikes.
Domestic Violence in the Spotlight
This horrific incident adds to a disturbing trend of domestic violence cases escalating into deadly confrontations. In Memphis alone, domestic violence has been a major contributor to homicide numbers over the past few years.
Advocacy organizations like the YWCA of Greater Memphis and Shelby County Crime Victims & Rape Crisis Center have renewed their call for community action and stronger resources for at-risk individuals.
“This is exactly why we must fund prevention, education, and intervention programs,” said Alicia Greene, director of a local domestic violence shelter. “Far too often, we hear ‘we never thought it would happen here’—but it can happen anywhere.”
How You Can Help
Anyone with information that could aid the investigation—especially surveillance footage or firsthand accounts—is urged to contact the Memphis Police Department at (901) 545-COPS (2677) or submit tips anonymously through CrimeStoppers at (901) 528-CASH.
The names of the critically injured survivor and the suspect have not been released, pending notification of family and further investigative developments.
If you or someone you know is in danger due to domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text “START” to 88788.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.