MEMPHIS, TN : Memphis on track for deadliest year on record on Monday, November 21st 2016

There has only been one year on record where Memphis has experienced more homicides than it has in 2016.Two hundred people homicides have happened in Memphis so far this year. In all of 1993, Memphis saw 213 homicides--the most ever in one year.

The somber number has Memphis Police Department Director Mike Rallings pleading for change.

"As a friend and loved one, you have the power to intervene. You can encourage others to commit to saying NO to guns, gangs, drugs, and violence. You can help someone leave an abusive relationship. You can help someone seek anger management and conflict resolution resources," Rallings said in a statement.

The 200th homicide victim is Deangelo Gray, 20. He was shot and killed outside a nightclub on Summer Avenue. Investigators have not arrested anyone for Gray's death.

MPD said it has solved 146 of the 200 homicide cases.

Rallings said more than half of the 200 cases involved people who knew each other. He said that means at least half of the homicides could've been prevented with effective communication and not resorting to violence.

"It's getting ridiculous out here," Mary Burke said.

Burke's grandson was killed in March in a road rage shooting.

"All of the homicides we're having, it's hurting families," Burke said.

Source :
Memphis on track for deadliest year on record