Memphis, Tennessee — A Memphis woman is facing a serious felony charge after police say she intentionally struck her ex-boyfriend with an SUV and then ran him over multiple times as he attempted to escape, leaving him critically injured.
The incident occurred late Saturday morning on the 500 block of Gilleas Road, where officers responded to reports of a violent assault involving a vehicle. According to police, the suspect, 39-year-old Tanieka Ray, has been charged with attempted first-degree murder in connection with the attack.
What Police Say Happened
Investigators say the incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m., when Ray allegedly confronted her former boyfriend in a residential neighborhood. According to witness accounts and the victim’s statement, the man was first struck by Ray’s SUV while he was outside near a neighbor’s property.
Police said the victim then slipped and fell in a neighbor’s yard while trying to flee. At that point, Ray allegedly drove onto the grass and ran him over multiple times, estimated at three to four separate strikes, as he attempted to get away.
Neighbor Witnesses the Attack
A neighbor told police he became aware of the situation after hearing a disturbance outside his home. When he looked out, he reportedly saw Ray inside an SUV, making repeated U-turns in the street while yelling at a man who was on the ground.
The neighbor told officers he heard Ray allegedly threaten the victim, saying she was going to run him over again and kill him.
After the assault, the neighbor found the injured man propped against a fence and helped move him onto his porch while calling police.
Suspect Allegedly Fled After Hitting Utility Pole
According to the neighbor’s account, Ray sped away from the scene following the attack and then struck a utility pole several houses away. After crashing, she allegedly exited the vehicle and ran from the area on foot.
Officers later located Ray in south Memphis, at a residence on the 700 block of East Davant Avenue. Police said the neighbor later identified her during a six-person lineup, helping confirm her involvement in the incident.
Victim Hospitalized in Critical Condition
The victim was transported to a hospital and listed in critical condition, according to authorities. Police said he suffered multiple broken bones and dislocated joints, requiring surgical intervention.
Investigators noted that the extent of the injuries was consistent with being struck and run over by a vehicle multiple times.
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As of the latest update, the victim remained hospitalized while recovering from his injuries.
Charges and Legal Status
Ray has been formally charged with attempted first-degree murder, one of the most serious violent felony charges under Tennessee law. Police said she was held over the weekend on the charge, though details regarding bond or an initial court appearance were not immediately released.
Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Ongoing Investigation
Memphis police said the investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing witness statements, physical evidence from the scene, and medical findings related to the victim’s injuries.
Officials emphasized that the case is being treated as a domestic-related violent incident, and additional information may be released as court proceedings move forward.
Community and Safety Concerns
The violent nature of the incident has raised concerns among residents in the neighborhood, where the attack unfolded in broad daylight.
Police reiterated the importance of reporting threats and escalating behavior in domestic disputes before they turn violent, noting that vehicle-related assaults often result in severe or fatal injuries.
As the case proceeds through the legal system, authorities say their focus remains on ensuring accountability and supporting the victim’s recovery.
What are your thoughts on how communities and law enforcement can better prevent domestic disputes from escalating into violent incidents? Share your perspective in the comments.
