A suspect wanted in connection with a fatal shooting in Memphis was arrested on Monday after an unusual turn of events led to his capture. Deario Wilkerson, 20, was apprehended by a U.S. Marshals Service task force after he fell through the ceiling of a home where he had been hiding.
Charges and Background
Wilkerson faces charges of first-degree murder and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon in the fatal shooting of Troy Cunningham, which occurred on April 2 in Memphis. The U.S. Marshals Service announced the arrest in a news release, confirming Wilkerson’s role as a fugitive sought by law enforcement in West Tennessee.
The Dramatic Arrest
Authorities had tracked Wilkerson to a residence in Memphis and had surrounded the home, prepared to bring him into custody. Wilkerson, attempting to evade capture, was hiding in the attic. However, his plan to stay out of sight was foiled when he accidentally fell through the ceiling.
Despite the unexpected fall, Wilkerson was unharmed and promptly arrested by the task force. The Marshals Service has not disclosed further details about the incident or how long Wilkerson had been hiding in the home.
Legal Proceedings
As of now, online court records do not indicate whether Wilkerson has legal representation to address the serious charges against him. His next steps in the legal process will likely involve a preliminary hearing where the charges will be formally presented.
The arrest marks a significant development in the case surrounding the death of Troy Cunningham, and authorities have not provided additional information regarding the ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement to track and apprehend suspects in serious crimes, often leading to unexpected outcomes, as in Wilkerson’s case.
