MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A tragic incident in Memphis’ Frayser neighborhood has left the community shaken after a 69-year-old man fatally shot a woman during an argument over religion.
Police identified the suspect as Calvin Johnson Sr., who now faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the death of Tamara Perkins. The deadly confrontation occurred early Tuesday morning, according to authorities.
Argument Escalates to Deadly Violence
Investigators reported that Johnson, Perkins, and another man had been drinking prior to the incident. A witness described the altercation escalating when Perkins reportedly poured a drink on Johnson and slapped him on the back of the head.
Following the incident, Johnson reportedly went to his room and returned with a double-barreled shotgun. Without uttering a word, he fired at Perkins, striking her in the stomach. The witness emphasized that Perkins was unarmed and had not threatened Johnson in any way.
Officers Respond to the Scene
When Memphis police arrived at the residence, they found Perkins unresponsive on the floor, with a shotgun lying nearby. Johnson reportedly admitted to the shooting at the scene, calmly stating, “I shot her.” During questioning at the homicide bureau, he allegedly continued making statements such as, “I killed her” and “I messed up, didn’t I?”
Court records indicate that while Johnson refused official questioning, he claimed that Perkins “came at him” and described her as “a big woman.” Authorities have not released additional information regarding the third individual present during the incident.
Community Reacts to the Tragedy
Neighbors in Frayser expressed shock over the fatal shooting. “It’s hard to imagine this happening right here in our neighborhood,” one resident said. “I knew Tamara. She was always friendly and kind.”
Johnson’s mugshot shows him wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words “Let the Lord,” which some community members noted added a tragic layer to the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Suspect Faces First-Degree Murder Charges
Johnson is currently in custody and has been charged with first-degree murder. Police continue to investigate the case, including the circumstances that led to the deadly argument and whether alcohol played a significant role in escalating tensions.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the Memphis Police Department.
This tragic event underscores the devastating consequences that can arise from a moment of conflict and has left friends, family, and neighbors mourning the loss of Tamara Perkins.