Memphis Mourns Beloved Climbing Gym Employee Jarmond Johnson Killed in Memphis Rox Shooting

Memphis Mourns Beloved Climbing Gym Employee Jarmond Johnson Killed in Memphis Rox Shooting

Memphis is in mourning after the shocking shooting at the Memphis Rox Climbing Center in Soulsville claimed the life of beloved gym employee Jarmond Johnson, 25. The tragic incident, which occurred Sunday evening, has deeply impacted the local community — members, staff, and Southern Memphis residents alike.

📅 The Incident

• Date & Location: Late afternoon, Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Memphis Rox Climbing Center (879 E. McLemore Avenue) in the Soulsville neighborhood

• What Happened: At 4:13 p.m., Memphis Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire at the climbing gym. Upon arrival, they discovered one man dead at the scene and a second critically wounded; the latter later succumbed to their injuries in hospital .

• Victim Identification: Confirmed Monday by a close family member, the first victim was Jarmond Johnson, 25, an outgoing and dedicated staff member of Memphis Rox .

• Investigation Status: Police report that the shooter and victims knew each other. One person has been detained, but the motive and sequence of events remain part of an ongoing investigation

🌟 Remembering Jarmond Johnson

Jarmond was one of the first employees at Memphis Rox, a nonprofit climbing gym celebrated for its inclusive environment and commitment to community healing through outdoor sports  Known for his warmth, energy, and tireless spirit, Jarmond wasn’t just an employee — he was part of the heart and soul of the gym.

• A Community Builder: On Memphis Rox’s “In the Media” page, a story titled “Florence and Jarmond: A Memphis Rox Story” highlights his journey from childhood in South Memphis to becoming part of the first staffers, demonstrating his deep connection to the gym, the cause, and the community it serves

• Role & Relationships: He helped foster a safe and welcoming space for climbers from all walks of life. Colleagues remember his infectious enthusiasm, affirming that he exemplified the gym’s belief that climbing changes lives.

Jarmond’s passing has left a void in the Soulsville community — among climbers, volunteers, and local families. In the wake of the tragedy, many have shared stories of his compassion, dedication, and boundless positivity.

💬 Community Response & Support

• Gym Closure & Vigil: In solidarity and mourning, Memphis Rox closed its doors for the week following the incident, giving staff and members time to grieve and seek support

• Public Reaction: Social media flooded with condolences. A poster on Reddit’s Memphis community shared emotional remarks recalling the shock and heartbreak:

  “I was there. I’m currently waiting to give my third statement at the police…”i

• This sentiment reflects the trauma felt not just personally but within the shared space that Memphis Rox embodied.

• Ongoing Investigation: The Memphis Police Department has appealed to the public for tips, urging anyone with relevant information to contact 901‑528‑CASH

🧭 The Legacy of Memphis Rox

Memphis Rox is more than a climbing gym — it’s a sanctuary of inclusion and empowerment. Located in one of Memphis’s most underserved areas, it offers a “pay-what-you-can” model and hosts events like RoxFest to build unity through physical challenge and mutual support.

Jarmond stood at the heart of this mission. His loss isn’t just personal; it’s communal. Through his daily interactions — guiding new climbers, cheering on seasoned ones, and sharing laughter — he embodied the gym’s core values and helped transform lives one climb at a time.

🕊️ Looking Forward

• Memorial Plans: A memorial or community gathering is expected to be arranged by Memphis Rox and local grassroots groups. Details will be shared with the public as soon as they are available.

• Support Services: In the meantime, the gym has coordinated with counseling services to assist staff and members dealing with grief, trauma, and emotional distress.

• Call for Justice: Community leaders and Memphis Rox supporters are urging the public to aid the police investigation, hoping to bring answers and accountability for Jarmond and the other victim.

🌼 Final Thoughts

The shooting at Memphis Rox has extinguished a bright light in Jarmond Johnson — a compassionate, energetic young man whose presence lifted others. His legacy lives on in every smile he sparked, every newcomer he guided, and every hand he held at the climbing wall.

As Memphis mourns, the Soulsville community stands united — grieving, but also remembering: in Jarmond’s memory, we continue to climb higher, support one another, and preserve the spirit of hope and togetherness he helped cultivate.

If you have any information related to the shooting, please contact Memphis Police at 901‑528‑CASH.