Memphis, Tenn. — An 18-year-old Tennessee man is jailed after police say he threatened to shoot his uncle using a handgun fitted with a 100-round drum magazine, following an argument over alleged theft.
The suspect, Kevin Lowery, now faces multiple felony counts, and authorities say the case highlights growing local concerns about high-capacity firearms and family-related violence.
Armed Confrontation Reported on Overton Park Avenue
Memphis police responded to a call about a man with a gun at a residence in the 1300 block of Overton Park Avenue after the victim — Lowery’s uncle — contacted officers. According to the police complaint, the uncle told investigators that he had accused the teen of stealing from him and intended to have the nephew spend the night at his sister’s home.
The situation escalated when Lowery, who was reportedly wearing the handgun on his hip, removed the standard magazine from the weapon and replaced it with a 100-round drum.
Shocking Threats, Photo Sent to Family Member
Authorities say Lowery then threatened the victim, allegedly telling him, “Once you drop me off, you better drive away quickly because I’m going to start shooting at you.” After leaving the apartment, Lowery purportedly sent a picture of the gun to his aunt and warned that if his uncle did not give him money to return to St. Louis, he would make the victim “lose everything.”
Officers Find Weapon and Drugs at the Scene
When officers returned to the area, they located Lowery sitting in front of the apartment. As he stood, a handgun and the high-capacity magazine reportedly fell from his lap. Police also say they found marijuana on the teen during the encounter. Lowery was taken into custody without further incident, according to the reports.
Charges and Bond Status
Kevin Lowery, 18, has been booked on a slate of serious charges, including:
- Aggravated assault
- Domestic assault
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Possession of marijuana with intent to sell
As of Thursday afternoon, Lowery remained held in the Shelby County Jail on a $25,000 bond.
Law Enforcement Response and Advice to Residents
Memphis police have emphasized that threats involving firearms are treated with the utmost seriousness, especially when a high-capacity magazine is involved. Investigators say the complaint, witness statements and the physical evidence recovered at the scene will form the basis of the prosecution.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Memphis Police Department to assist the ongoing investigation.
What do you think should be done to keep teens and families safer from gun violence — stronger gun controls, better youth services, more community policing, or something else? Share your thoughts and personal experiences in the comments below.
