MEMPHIN, TN – A Memphis man, Tamarris Hopkins (23), faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment after a shooting outside a Cordova Walmart on March 22nd, 2024.

According to the police report, the incident unfolded when Hopkins was observed arguing with a woman near the store entrance. Witness accounts detail two men and a child entering the store around the same time and allegedly witnessing the altercation. Police reports indicate Hopkins verbally confronted the men, asking “what they were looking at,” which escalated into an argument.

The situation took a dangerous turn when Hopkins allegedly punched one of the men and drew a firearm. Court documents claim the man then retrieved his own weapon, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. The victim was reportedly shot three times by Hopkins.

Thankfully, the injured party survived the attack. Hopkins, a former Walmart employee according to police, fled the scene but later turned himself in. He is scheduled for a court appearance on Tuesday morning.

Tamarris Hopkins, 23, was arrested and charged with Criminal Attempt 2nd Degree Murder, Agg Assault (2x), Reckless Endangerment, and Employment of a Firearm During the commission of a Dangerous Felony. https://t.co/3SG5Y9Imh3

— Memphis Police Dept (@MEM_PoliceDept) March 23, 2024

The Dangers of Intervention

While the specifics of this case remain under investigation, it highlights the inherent dangers of intervening in someone else’s conflict. In the heat of the moment, it’s often difficult to discern the full picture of a situation. Who started the fight? Who is the aggressor? These are crucial details that bystanders may not be privy to.

Sadly, intervening on behalf of someone you perceive as a victim can backfire tragically. The person you try to help might misinterpret your actions, leading to them lashing out at you. In a world where tensions run high, the days of chivalry intervening in every damsel-in-distress scenario are likely over. The safest course of action for bystanders in most cases is to prioritize their own well-being and the safety of loved ones. If you witness a fight, it’s generally best to call the police and let them handle the situation.