Teen Charged After Water Gun Fight Turns Fatal in Memphis

16-year-old suspect faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, after shooting at unauthorized senior skip day event.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 5:00pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a water gun shell casing on a dark background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the tragic consequences of a water gun fight gone wrong.The aftermath of a water gun fight that turned deadly, exposing the dangers of unsupervised student gatherings and the presence of real firearms.Memphis Today

A 16-year-old has been charged with first-degree murder and other felonies after a 17-year-old was fatally shot during a water gun fight at an unsupervised senior skip day gathering in Memphis' Shelby Farms Park. The shooting occurred on Tuesday when a real firearm was discharged during the water gun fight, which drew nearly 200 students from several high schools. The victim, Coriuan Bean, was a junior at Millington Central High School.

Why it matters

The incident has had a major impact on the local community and is changing how students view the long-standing tradition of senior skip day, which is often unsupervised. It raises concerns about gun violence and the need for better safety protocols at these types of unauthorized student gatherings.

The details

According to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, the shooting happened during an unauthorized senior skip day event at Shelby Farms Park. A water gun fight was taking place when a real firearm was discharged, fatally wounding 17-year-old Coriuan Bean. Investigators have not yet determined whether the shooting was targeted or accidental. The 16-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday and is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, reckless endangerment, and aggravated assault.

  • The shooting occurred on Tuesday, April 20, 2026.
  • The 16-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday, April 24, 2026.

The players

Coriuan Bean

A 17-year-old junior at Millington Central High School who was fatally shot during the water gun fight.

16-year-old suspect

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

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident.

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What’s next

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and they are still working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for better safety protocols and supervision at unsanctioned student gatherings, as well as the ongoing challenge of gun violence in schools and communities.