In a shocking case from Tennessee, a man has been accused of fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend and another man she was with, just days after she reported him for domestic violence. Authorities say the incident highlights the dangers of escalating abuse.
Accused and Victims Identified
The accused, Verdell Pegues (41), faces multiple serious charges, including two counts of first-degree murder.
The victims have been identified as Lashaunda Boyd (36) and Jimmy Ford (37).
Prior Domestic Violence Reports Raise Alarms
Court records reveal that Boyd had filed two police complaints just days before the shooting.
- She alleged that Pegues assaulted her on March 15
- Two days later, he reportedly threatened her with a handgun, saying, “If I can’t have you, no one can”
These warnings are now central to the investigation.
How the Shooting Unfolded
The shooting took place on March 22 near East Dison Avenue and Carnegie Street in Memphis.
Police say video footage shows the suspect approaching Boyd and Ford as they walked on the sidewalk and opening fire. Both victims collapsed after being shot.
Authorities allege that Pegues then stood over them and fired additional shots before fleeing the scene.
Police Response and Evidence
Officers arriving at the scene found:
- Both victims with gunshot wounds
- 9 mm cartridge casings scattered nearby
Boyd was declared dead at the scene, while Ford was taken to a hospital but later died from his injuries.
Witness Testimony Leads to Arrest
Multiple witnesses told investigators that the shooter was known as “RaRa,” identified as Boyd’s ex-boyfriend.
One witness reportedly saw the attack and later confirmed Pegues as the suspect.
Police subsequently arrested Pegues, who has since appeared in court via video arraignment.
Charges and Current Status
Pegues faces several charges, including:
- First-degree murder (two counts)
- Reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon
- Use of a firearm during a felony
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
He is currently being held on a $1 million bond.
Growing Concern Over Domestic Violence Escalation
The case underscores ongoing concerns about domestic violence cases escalating into fatal incidents, even after victims report threats to authorities.
Investigations are ongoing as the legal process moves forward.
