MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The mayor of Bolivar, Tennessee, said two persons of interest have been arrested in an unrelated case after a shooting at a birthday party Saturday night. He released a statement Monday saying he wanted to address misinformation circulating on social media.
"Our citizens are quarreling with each other based on speculation rather than attacking the problem with correct information," said Mayor Julian A. McTizic Sr.
According to the mayor, Bolivar Police responded to a report of shots fired at the party about 11 p.m. on June 22, 2024. He said two people were taken to the local hospital by private vehicle, then one was taken to Regional One Hospital. He said their injures were non-life threatening. The mayor said there were also other minor injuries reported related to the gunfire in the aftermath.
Mayor McTizic said the two persons of interest were arrested on unrelated weapons charges later in Haywood County. He said those two and others could face additional charges once all of the evidence is processed. He did not release their names.
The mayor said a high-speed chase on Highway 18 South that some had mentioned on social media was "completely unrelated to this incident."
"While it is inherent in human nature to place blame, it is imperative to place blame where blame is due," said the mayor in a statement. "Blame rightfully and squarely belongs to the persons who acted with reckless abandon and disregard for the value of human life when they purposely brought weapons into our city to a birthday party and chose to discharge those weapons into a crowd of people. Parties are not the problem. Shootings occur at parties, in grocery stores, in movie theaters, and even in places of worship. So let’s direct our anger, frustration, and blame at those persons committing these crimes. With the number of people present at the party, we should all be grateful and thankful that by the grace of God only minor injuries were received."
The mayor said they had been made aware of the party beforehand, and additional personnel were on hand Saturday evening.
"It is important to note that no law prohibits a person from hosting a party on their own property or in their own home," said the mayor."
Bolivar councilman Chris Williams said on social media there had been damage to homes, vehicles and even a church.
This reckless behavior left many of our residents fearing for their safety, ducking and dodging bullets in their own homes. While the party was hosted on private property, it unintentionally overflowed into our city streets and spanned several blocks in the Frog Town community, blocking roadways, private drives, and business parking lots in the area.
It has come to my attention that a lot of the individuals who came from outside of Bolivar and Hardeman County played a role in the violence that unfolded.
Since becoming aware of these senseless acts of violence I have been in constant communication with Bolivar Police Chief Jones, Sheriff Doolen, fellow council members, and other local leaders to address the immediate aftermath and a plan for preventing such violence going forward. We must come together as local leaders to address these issues to ensure the safety and well-being of all Bolivar residents...
As your city councilman, I am committed to using every resource at my disposal to ensure the safety and security of our citizens and visitors alike. I will continue discussions with local leaders, law enforcement, and community members regarding this incident.
While we understand the desire to enjoy the summer weather and festivities, these activities must take place in a manner that prioritizes safety above all else. Other recent community parties have been held with little to no issues while everyone enjoyed themselves. The chaos and danger that unfolded during last night's block party are unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our community.
Every citizen has the right to feel safe in their homes, neighborhoods, and while driving through our streets. Let us stand together to ensure that Bolivar remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family!
Sincerely,
Councilman Chris Williams
The mayor said the city has partnered with Quinco Mental Health Center to provide free counseling services for those affected by the incident. Call 731-658-6113 for more information.
Taking a look at Mid-South crime after Memphis' homicide record breaks
As crime proves to be a continued challenge for the city of Memphis and surrounding areas, how to reduce the pain that it has caused communities remains on the minds of civilians, politicians and changemakers alike.
Click here for a collection of organized facts and data surrounding crime in the Mid-South as well as a list of organizations that could use your help in reducing crime specifically in the city of Memphis.
For example, those looking to get involved with and/or donate to the various groups working to reduce crime in the Memphis area can do so with links like these:
