A tragic shooting in Memphis, Tennessee, has shocked the community after a 93-year-old woman was killed inside her own home during a violent dispute that authorities say involved younger individuals. The case has drawn attention not only because of the victim’s age but also because the elderly woman reportedly had nothing to do with the conflict that led to the shooting.
Police say the suspect was just 17 years old at the time of the incident. The case has now moved to adult criminal court as prosecutors seek justice for the victims and their families.
Teen Charged With Murder in Shooting That Killed 93-Year-Old Woman
Authorities have charged Derrion Taylor with multiple serious offenses following the deadly shooting.
The charges include:
- First-degree murder
- Two counts of attempted first-degree murder
- Two counts of aggravated assault
According to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, Taylor was 17 years old when the shooting occurred.
The incident took place on January 17, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee.
Police Responded to Shooting at Memphis Home
Memphis Police officers were called to a home on Kendale Avenue after receiving reports of a shooting.
When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered three women who had been shot.
The victims included:
- Geraldine Harris, 93 years old
- Two other women whose names were not publicly released
Geraldine Harris was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two victims were rushed to a nearby hospital with critical injuries.
Dispute Reportedly Led to the Shooting
During the investigation, detectives learned that the shooting may have started after a disagreement between at least one of the victims and two men.
Local officials believe the conflict had nothing to do with the elderly victim who lost her life.
State Representative Antonio Parkinson, who represents the Memphis area, expressed frustration and sadness over the situation.
He said that Harris was an innocent victim caught in violence that likely involved younger people.
Suspect Arrested More Than a Year Later
Investigators eventually identified Derrion Taylor as the suspect responsible for the shooting.
However, his arrest did not happen immediately.
A juvenile petition for Taylor’s arrest was issued on July 22, 2025, about a year and a half after the incident.
Two days later, law enforcement officers located Taylor at a home on Colony Drive in Memphis.
With assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, officers surrounded the residence and arrested him.
Case Transferred to Adult Criminal Court
Prosecutors later announced that Taylor’s case has been transferred from juvenile court to adult criminal court.
His bond has been set at $1 million.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy described the case as deeply disturbing.
He said the death of a 93-year-old woman in her own home is a heartbreaking tragedy, and the community continues to mourn her loss.
Geraldine Harris Remembered for a Life of Service
Geraldine Harris was not only a victim of a tragic crime but also a respected member of the Memphis community.
Her obituary highlights her long life of service and dedication to helping others.
She was known as:
- A longtime Memphis public school teacher
- A committed church member
- A community activist
Even after retiring more than 40 years ago, Harris continued to serve the community.
She volunteered her time teaching inmates at the Shelby County Penal Farm, delivered meals to seniors through the Meals on Wheels program, and remained active in her church.
Her life was centered around education, kindness, and helping those in need.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Geraldine Harris (93) |
| Suspect | Derrion Taylor |
| Age of Suspect at Time | 17 years old |
| Incident Date | January 17, 2024 |
| Location | Kendale Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee |
| Charges | First-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault |
| Arrest Date | July 24, 2025 |
| Bond | $1 million |
| Court Status | Transferred to adult criminal court |
