Domestic Violence Tragedy: Suspect Charged in Brutal Shooting of Ex-Girlfriend in Front of Children

In a disturbing case of domestic violence, a Memphis man is facing attempted murder charges after allegedly shooting his ex-girlfriend in front of their three young children. The incident, which occurred more than six weeks ago, has shed light on the ongoing issue of domestic abuse and the need for stronger intervention and support systems to protect victims and their families.

Uncovering a Cycle of Abuse: A Tragic Tale of Domestic Violence

Alleged Shooting Incident and Victim's Plea for Help

According to the Memphis Police Department, the shooting took place on the afternoon of Friday, May 10, when the victim, the ex-girlfriend of the suspect, called for help from a home on Ironwood Drive in Hickory Hill. She reported that she had been shot by her ex-boyfriend, Kristopher Jackson, 39, and that she couldn't feel her legs. When police arrived, they allegedly witnessed Jackson making his getaway in a silver pickup truck. The victim's eight-year-old daughter told police that she witnessed Jackson trying to drag her injured mother into the truck. The victim's two other children, ages six and four, were also reportedly watching from a window, unharmed.

Victim's Account of the Shooting

The victim told responding officers that she and Jackson were arguing about their separation when he shot her in the back as she turned and walked away. She was rushed to Regional One Hospital with critical injuries, highlighting the severity of the attack.

Suspect's Criminal History and Previous Abuse Allegations

Police records reveal that Kristopher Jackson, 39, has a history of domestic violence. He was convicted of domestic assault with bodily harm, a misdemeanor, in 2015. Investigators also learned that the victim had filed a police report against her ex-boyfriend on April 5, alleging that he had placed a gun to her forehead and threatened to kill her in front of their four-year-old child. However, records indicate that he was never charged for that allegation.

Charges and Bail Conditions

Kristopher Jackson is now charged with attempted first-degree murder, employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun, and three counts of reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. He is being held on a 0,000 bond, and his next court date is scheduled for July 8.

Ongoing Struggle for Victims of Domestic Violence

The tragic events in this case highlight the ongoing struggle that many victims of domestic violence face. Despite the victim's previous report of abuse, the alleged perpetrator was not charged, allowing the cycle of violence to continue. This underscores the need for stronger intervention and support systems to protect victims and their families, as well as the importance of holding abusers accountable for their actions.

Calls for Action and Community Support

The community is now rallying around the victim and her children, calling for justice and increased resources to address the issue of domestic violence. Advocates are urging policymakers and law enforcement to prioritize the safety and well-being of victims, and to ensure that reports of abuse are taken seriously and followed up with appropriate action.