Memphis, TN – A 51-year-old Memphis man is facing serious charges after allegedly shooting his wife during an argument, then driving her to the hospital but stopping to buy a beer along the way, prosecutors said.
Argument Turns Violent Inside West Junction Home
According to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, the incident happened on July 19 at a home on Fostoria Road in the West Junction neighborhood. Authorities say an argument between Decarlo Pitchford and his wife started verbally but escalated when she tried to leave. Prosecutors allege Pitchford blocked her from leaving, at one point pointing a 9 mm Ruger handgun at her.
As the confrontation continued, Pitchford allegedly fired a shot and told his wife, “I told you to stop playing with me,” according to details reported by WREG Memphis. The bullet struck the woman in the abdomen, causing serious injuries.
Delayed Trip to Hospital
After the shooting, Pitchford reportedly put his wife in his Dodge Ram and drove toward Methodist University Hospital. However, investigators say he stopped to purchase a beer during the trip. Police learned about the victim after hospital staff reported her injuries.
When officers first arrived at the couple’s home following a shooting call, they had to force entry but found the residence empty. They later connected the hospital report to the incident.
Victim’s Statement Contradicts Suspect’s Claim
In her statement to police, the victim said she tried to leave the home with her belongings but was blocked by Pitchford, who had a handgun in his possession the entire time. She told officers the shooting was intentional, contradicting Pitchford’s later claim that it was an accident while clearing a jammed gun.
Investigators also recovered evidence that supported her account, including the location of the shooting near the bathroom hallway.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Pitchford faces multiple charges: attempted second-degree murder, domestic assault, possession of a firearm by a felon, and theft of property between $1,000 and $2,500. The Shelby County DA’s Office recently named the case its “Case of the Day” after a judge found probable cause for the charges.
Pitchford allegedly admitted to police that he possessed the gun despite being a convicted felon. He remains in custody as the case moves forward.
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