Arrest made in teen's murder at Shelby Farms

A 16-year-old suspect has been charged with first-degree murder and other felonies in the shooting death of a 17-year-old high school junior.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:06am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent shell casing on the ground, the metallic surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, conveying a sense of the violent crime that occurred.The aftermath of a deadly shooting at a teen gathering in a public park exposes the harsh realities of youth violence.Memphis Today

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office has announced an arrest in the shooting death of a 17-year-old boy during an unsanctioned senior skip day event at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tennessee. A 16-year-old suspect has been charged with first-degree murder, criminal attempted first-degree murder, and several other felonies related to the incident.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of youth violence and the need for greater safety measures and supervision at large public gatherings, especially those involving high school students. The shooting has shaken the local community and raised concerns about security at Shelby Farms Park, a popular recreation area.

The details

According to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, the 16-year-old suspect has been charged with first-degree murder, criminal attempted first-degree murder, reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon, employing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and three counts of aggravated assault. The victim has been identified as 17-year-old Coriuan Bean, a junior at Millington Central High School.

  • The shooting occurred on Tuesday during an unsanctioned senior skip day event at Shelby Farms Park.

The players

Coriuan Bean

A 17-year-old junior at Millington Central High School who was killed in the shooting.

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that made the arrest and is investigating the incident.

16-year-old suspect

The juvenile suspect who has been charged with first-degree murder and other felonies in connection with the shooting.

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What’s next

The 16-year-old suspect will face a judge to determine if he will be tried as an adult for the charges.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the need for greater safety measures and supervision at large public gatherings involving high school students, as well as the ongoing challenges of youth violence that communities must continue to address.