MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphians had the chance to turn in their unwanted guns anonymously on Saturday as part of a buyback program hosted by the Memphis Police Department.
By 12:45 p.m. Saturday, Memphis Police Chief C.J. Davis said more than 80 guns were turned in at "Groceries and Gas for Guns." Monday, MPD said that number increased to 138.
Davis said it's events like these that can save lives in the long run.
"We want to approach gun violence from a myriad of different angles," Davis said. "Not just making sure we're enforcing the laws here in the city of Memphis, but we are also putting mechanisms in place so that our community members can exercise education, awareness, and safety proactively as it relates to firearms."
Those who stopped by the Hickory Ridge Mall parking lot and brought up to three guns received a $50 Kroger gift card and those who dropped off assault rifles received a $100 Kroger gift card.