Drive-By shooting in Ripley, Tennessee Leaves One Teen Dead

Ripley, Tennessee, is reeling after a heartbreaking incident where two teenage boys were shot during a drive-by shooting on Wednesday night. The shooting, which allegedly took place around 7:30 p.m. in the Northcrest subdivision, has left the community in shock. One of the victims, a 16-year-old boy named Demarcus Barnes, tragically lost his life. The other teen, also 16, sustained a leg injury but is expected to survive.

Demarcus was not just any student; he was a senior at Ripley High School and a dedicated varsity football player. News of his death has hit hard, prompting the school’s athletic department to express their grief on social media, stating, “Some things are unexpected and can’t be explained.” A memorial has already been set up outside the high school in his honor, showcasing the impact he had on his peers and the community.

Lauderdale County Schools Superintendent Shawn Kimble released a heartfelt statement following the shooting, emphasizing the senseless nature of such tragedies in the region. He expressed deep sorrow for the loss of a student and called for prayers for both the student body and Demarcus’s family as they navigate this unimaginable pain.

As of now, local police have not released any information regarding potential suspects, adding to the community’s anxiety. Residents are left wondering how something so violent could occur in their neighborhood, with many hoping for answers and justice. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the realities many communities face today, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and action surrounding youth violence.