With Friday’s scheduled release of video footage of the beating of Tyre D. Nichols, Memphis-Shelby County Schools is altering the schedule of planned activities and some area businesses have announced earlier closings.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Tyre Nichols, and those across the Mid-South affected by this tragedy,” MSCS officials said in a media release on Thursday.
“In the interest of public safety, on Friday, Jan. 27, we are canceling all after-school activities, including YCare and athletic events. Our Family Wellness Centers will close early Friday at 5 p.m.”
The 2023 School Choice Showcase, originally scheduled for Saturday, has been postponed a week to Feb. 4.
“We are monitoring events and will announce a decision about Saturday’s additional activities and games by 10 p.m. Friday,” the release detailed.
“We are taking these measures out of an abundance of caution as we reflect on and work through a difficult moment for our community.”
Families who need support are encouraged to reach out to the District helpline at 901-416-8484, where licensed social workers are available, or the National Crisis Lifeline at 988.
An example of businesses closing early is Joe’s Wines & Liquors, which will open at 8 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Friday (Jan.27) “to allow our city to take in the public release of footage showing the murder of Tyre Nichols. …
“We hope that everyone is able to process this traumatic event in a safe manner. Our prayers and love go out to the family and friends of Tyre Nichols and the entire Memphis community.”
Also on Thursday:
Second-degree murder and more for former officers charged in Tyre Nichols’ death
Late Wednesday (Jan. 25), MPD Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis spoke through video.
Also Wednesday, U.S. Atty. Kevin G. Ritz, detailed what he told Nichols’ family about a federal criminal investigation now underway. That’s part of the story below.
Support for the Nichols family and the pursuit of “Justice for Tyre” is coming from multiple quarters.
Ahead of viewing video footage at Memphis City Hall last Monday, RowVaughn Wells and Rodney Wells, Nichols’ parents, asked the skateboarding community to show it supports outside. Their son was an avid skateboarder.
Among the haunting questions the horrific beating and Nichols’ death poses is this:
Tyre Nichols’ family showed determination from the jump to get “Justice for Tyre.”
Family embraces ‘exposure’ in pursuit of ‘justice for Tyre’
The intersection of the pursuit of “Justice for Tyre” and grieving the loss.
Then, a step toward justice.
Fired! Five officers terminated in connection with ‘tragic death’ of Tyre D. Nichols
It was a step that caught many off guard.
With the volume increasing for the release of video footage to the public, Tyre Nichols’ family saw what there is during a private setting at Memphis City Hall.
Family’s viewing of video footage strengthens resolve to get ‘Justice For Tyre’
The rawness of the community tragedy cuts deep and no one feels it more than Tyre’s mother, RowVaughn Wells.
