A Memphis grandmother’s attempt to protect her grandson has landed her in jail after an incident outside a community center turned chaotic.
Joyce Brown, 72, was arrested Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, after firing a gunshot into the ground during a fight involving her grandson and another teenager.
The altercation took place in the crowded parking lot of the Mitchell Community Center, which is adjacent to Mitchell High School. Security footage captured the moment when Brown intervened in the escalating brawl by discharging her firearm.
According to police, the parking lot was full of children at the time, many of whom fled in fear after the gunshot rang out. Witnesses say Brown admitted to firing the shot after one of the teenagers allegedly threatened to overturn her car.
Brown now faces serious charges, including three counts of reckless endangerment, child abuse or neglect and endangerment, carrying a weapon on school property, and unlawful possession of a weapon in a public place. Her bond was set at $20,000, which she posted Thursday afternoon.
Marcus Clark, Brown’s son, defended his mother’s actions, claiming she was trying to protect her grandson from persistent bullying.
“She was only trying to break up the fight,” Clark said told Fox 13, explaining that tensions had been building between his nephew and other students.
The incident has sparked outrage and debate, with Clark calling on parents to take accountability for their children’s actions.
“When are we going to be men and women?” he asked. “Start being parents instead of friends.”
The Mitchell Community Center was closed for the rest of the day following the incident, adding to the disruption caused by the already tense situation.
The case highlights growing concerns about violence in schools and the lengths some family members feel they must go to protect their loved ones.
