Tragedy at Memphis Rox: A Community Shattered After Double Shooting Leaves Two Men Dead
In what was meant to be a place of refuge, support, and healing, the Memphis Rox climbing and community center in the Soulsville neighborhood of Memphis, Tennessee, became the scene of an unthinkable tragedy. On the afternoon of Sunday, June 29, 2025, an altercation between two men erupted into deadly violence, leaving both individuals fatally wounded and an entire community reeling in grief and disbelief.
The two men—identified by authorities and community leaders as Jarmond Johnson and Mon Da Don—were not strangers to Memphis Rox. In fact, at least one of them, Johnson, was deeply involved in the center’s mission, recognized by many as a pillar of strength and guidance within the organization. His presence was familiar, his voice a comforting one, his leadership a steady force in countless lives. Mon Da Don, while perhaps less publicly connected, was known to many as well—his name and presence often associated with music, passion, and strong opinions.
What began as a heated argument between the two quickly escalated into physical confrontation. As tensions rose and voices echoed off the gym’s concrete walls, those present were unable to stop the fight from spiraling out of control. The escalation reached its devastating climax when gunfire rang out inside the center. Multiple rounds were discharged in rapid succession, creating chaos and panic among bystanders, some of whom initially mistook the sounds for something mechanical or environmental.
But what had occurred was unmistakably violent. Both men were struck by the gunfire and collapsed to the ground as stunned staff and visitors scrambled to find safety and call for emergency assistance. Despite rapid response efforts from paramedics and Memphis Fire personnel, both Johnson and Don succumbed to their injuries. The gun violence that unfolded in what was meant to be a sanctuary has now left a deep emotional scar on one of Memphis’ most celebrated community-driven nonprofits.
A Center of Hope Torn by Tragedy
Memphis Rox has long stood as a symbol of unity, healing, and opportunity in South Memphis. Founded with the mission of offering accessible rock climbing and youth mentoring programs regardless of financial means, the center has grown into much more than a gym. It has become a safe haven for hundreds—particularly youth seeking direction, adults looking for community, and families striving for stability. Climbing walls, classrooms, counseling services, and social initiatives coexist in a space designed to uplift and include.
To see blood spilled inside these walls has rattled the very foundation upon which Memphis Rox stands. For many, the pain goes beyond the loss of two men—it’s a spiritual fracture in the heart of a place that has brought so much hope to so many.
“This isn’t just about gun violence,” one community leader said through tears. “This is about the loss of peace in a place that was built to protect peace.”
Remembering the Lives Lost
Those who knew Johnson describe him as a mentor, motivator, and beloved leader who had dedicated his life to empowering youth in the Soulsville neighborhood. His presence at Memphis Rox extended beyond climbing instruction—he was the kind of man who would sit down with a teenager in crisis, offer rides to job interviews, and lead by example. He championed accountability, growth, and love.
“He was more than a coach,” one young person said. “He was like a big brother to all of us. He didn’t just teach us how to climb—he taught us how to rise.”
Mon Da Don, whose life ended alongside Johnson’s, was also known in the community, particularly in local music and cultural circles. He was a passionate figure, sometimes polarizing, but often deeply involved in grassroots expression and outreach. Some described him as a man trying to find his place in a complicated world—one who had a strong voice and wasn’t afraid to use it.
The events that led to the argument and eventual shooting remain under active investigation by the Memphis Police Department. Authorities have not confirmed whether the firearm belonged to one of the men or how the weapon entered the facility. There is no indication at this time of additional suspects or accomplices, and both men appear to have perished from injuries sustained during the incident itself.
Trauma and Healing in the Aftermath
As news of the shooting spread, vigils quickly formed outside Memphis Rox, with candles, photographs, and hand-written notes left along the sidewalk. Volunteers and staff—many of whom witnessed the violence firsthand—have been offered trauma support and counseling services through local mental health partners.
“It’s so hard to put into words,” said a longtime volunteer. “We’ve worked so hard to make this a place of safety and joy. For this to happen here… it’s just devastating.”
The facility has temporarily closed its doors to allow for investigation and healing, but administrators have emphasized that this closure is not a retreat—it’s a pause for regrouping. Plans are underway to reopen in the coming weeks with strengthened security protocols, expanded mental health services, and renewed outreach to ensure that the Rox community continues to be a place of refuge.
Faith leaders from across Memphis have also stepped in, leading prayer circles, offering grief counseling, and working with youth to help process the trauma. Many teens and young adults who regularly attended programs at Memphis Rox have expressed deep sorrow, confusion, and fear. Teachers and school counselors throughout the city have been alerted to the emotional needs of students affected by the loss, particularly those with close ties to Johnson and Don.
“We have to wrap our arms around these young people right now,” said one counselor. “They are hurting, and they’re looking for answers in a world that doesn’t always make sense.”
A Community Determined to Rise
In a city too often scarred by gun violence, Sunday’s tragedy has reignited calls for stronger community investments, increased mental health resources, and gun safety reform. Local officials have promised full transparency in the investigation and a commitment to ensuring that community centers like Memphis Rox are never again the scenes of such heartbreaking violence.
“This cannot become our norm,” said a city council member. “We cannot accept that places built for love and growth are turned into battlegrounds. We have to do better—for our kids, for our future, for those we’ve lost.”
In an emotional social media post, Memphis Rox staff vowed to carry on their mission, even in the face of grief.
“We are heartbroken. We are mourning. But we will not stop,” the post read. “We will honor the lives lost by recommitting to the work they believed in—building bridges, lifting others, and creating safe spaces for all.”
Moving Forward, Together
Plans are currently underway for dual memorials to honor the lives of the two men lost. Community members are organizing fundraising campaigns to support funeral expenses and family needs, while faith-based groups are coordinating prayer events, youth forums, and public safety discussions in the days ahead.
For now, the focus remains on healing—a process that will take time, patience, and unity. The pain is still raw, and the questions remain unanswered. But through the sorrow, a collective determination has emerged. Memphis is no stranger to adversity. Its people, especially in neighborhoods like Soulsville, have always found ways to transform pain into purpose, tragedy into transformation.
Though Sunday’s violence has left a lasting scar, it has also awakened a deeper sense of community responsibility. Neighbors are checking on one another. Strangers are embracing. Young people are stepping up to ask how they can help carry the torch of leadership and peace.
As one vigil organizer said simply, “They wanted a better world. Let’s give it to them.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, trauma, or mental health in the wake of this tragedy, community support is available. Resources include:
- Free counseling at Memphis Rox (schedule to resume after reopening)
- Local grief support groups organized by Shelby County Health Department
- Faith-based counseling through area churches
- Gun violence prevention hotlines and survivor assistance
In honor of the lives lost, Memphis Rox will be hosting a special community healing event (date to be announced), open to all who seek comfort, reflection, and unity.
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