Calvin Hicks Jr. Killed in Orange Mound Convenience Store Shooting; Family Seeks Justice
In a tragic incident that unfolded late Monday night, Calvin Hicks Jr., a devoted father of eight, was fatally shot while assisting someone with a tire change at the Save-A-Stop convenience store located on Kimball Avenue in the Orange Mound neighborhood of Memphis. The shooting occurred just before midnight, leaving the community in shock and prompting a swift response from the Memphis Police Department (MPD).
Background of the Incident
According to early reports from the MPD, officers responded to a shooting at the Save-A-Stop convenience store on Kimball Avenue around 10 p.m. on Monday. Upon arrival, they found Calvin Hicks Jr. with gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect reportedly fled the area in a white sedan, and authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward. (localmemphis.com)
Victim Profile: Calvin Hicks Jr.
Calvin Hicks Jr. was known in the Orange Mound community for his kindness and willingness to help others. His sister, Cvelyn Love, shared that Hicks was assisting someone with a tire change when the shooting occurred. She emphasized that her brother was not involved in any criminal activity and was simply at the wrong place at the wrong time. (localmemphis.com)
Hicks was a father to eight children, ranging in age from 21 to 5 years old. His son, 15-year-old Calvin Hicks III, expressed his grief, stating that his father would offer life-changing advice but struggled to apply it to himself. The family has set up a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral arrangements and support for the children during this difficult time. (localmemphis.com)
Community Reaction and Call for Justice
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Orange Mound community, with residents expressing their disbelief and sorrow. Many have come forward to share their memories of Hicks, highlighting his generosity and the positive impact he had on those around him. The family is now seeking justice, urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Memphis Police Department.(localmemphis.com, localmemphis.com)
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
The Memphis Police Department has launched an investigation into the shooting, working diligently to identify and apprehend the suspect responsible. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and following up on leads provided by the community. The MPD has also increased patrols in the Orange Mound neighborhood to ensure the safety of residents and to deter further criminal activity.
In addition to the local police efforts, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has been involved in addressing crime in the area. Earlier investigations led to the shutdown of a nearby Save-A-Stop store due to its association with illegal activities, including drug sales and firearms offenses. (localmemphis.com)
Broader Implications
This incident underscores the ongoing issues of gun violence and public safety in Memphis, particularly in neighborhoods like Orange Mound. Community leaders are calling for increased efforts to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to resources. There is also a push for stronger gun control measures and more support for law enforcement agencies to combat illegal firearms trafficking.(localmemphis.com)
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that steps will be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The memory of Calvin Hicks Jr. serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and the need for collective action to create safer neighborhoods for all.(localmemphis.com)
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Memphis Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH. The family and community await answers and justice for Calvin Hicks Jr.(localmemphis.com, localmemphis.com)
