schools
Former TSU student shot, killed by National Guard in Memphis. Here’s what we know
By Caleb Wethington at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 6, 2026
· 3 min read
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WSMV) - Tennessee State University confirmed that the man shot and killed by National Guard members in Memphis was a former TSU student.The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation identified the man as 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson, who was killed in a National Guard-involved shooting in Do...
Key takeaway The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation identified the man as 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson, who was killed in a National Guard-involved shooting in Downtown Memphis over the Fourth of July weekend.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The fatal shooting of former Tennessee State University student Tyrin Johnson by National Guard members in Memphis raises questions about the use of force by law enforcement and military personnel in Tennessee. As the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation conducts its inquiry, Nashville residents will be watching closely to see how the state responds to the incident. The fact that Johnson was a young man with ties to the local community, having attended TSU from August 2023 through May 2024, will likely resonate with many in Nashville. The university's expression of condolences to Johnson's family and loved ones reflects the somber mood that has settled over the state. As lawmakers call for a clear and transparent accounting of the circumstances surrounding Johnson's death, Nashville will be waiting to see how the investigation unfolds and what steps the state takes to address concerns about the use of deadly force.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: schools ·
Published: July 6, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WSMV) - Tennessee State University confirmed that the man shot and killed by National Guard members in Memphis was a former TSU student.The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation identified the man as 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson, who was killed in a National Guard-involved shooting in Do...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 6, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Caleb Wethington at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more schools coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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