Memphis, TN – May 29, 2025 — April 2025 marked a grim milestone for Memphis, recording one of the deadliest months for children due to gun violence. Fourteen children were shot across various locations, including parks, festivals, memorials, and near schools; seven of these incidents resulted in fatalities.Dr. Regan Williams, director of trauma services at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, highlighted that many of the young victims were bystanders caught in the crossfire of community violence.
She pointed to the state's "guns in trunks" law, which allows firearms to be stored in vehicles, as a contributing factor to the increase in stolen guns and subsequent shootings.The rise in gun-related incidents has made firearms the leading cause of death for children in Tennessee.
Despite this alarming trend, legislative efforts to implement stricter gun control measures have faced significant opposition.Community members and advocates continue to call for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of gun violence and to ensure the safety of children throughout Memphis.
