In a heartbreaking incident in Memphis, a 58-year-old woman, Sonya Dates, was tragically murdered by her 23-year-old grandson, Kerrien Dates, who then stole her car. The brutal crime occurred on Wednesday afternoon, and the swift police investigation quickly led to Kerrien’s arrest. This shocking event has left the community in disbelief as they mourn the loss of Sonya Dates.
Discovery of the Crime
The discovery of Sonya Dates’ body was made by her daughter, who found her mother bleeding on the floor with a bloody hammer nearby. Memphis Police officers responded quickly to the scene and found that Sonya had suffered fatal injuries from blunt force trauma, believed to have been caused by the hammer. Despite the immediate efforts of paramedics, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Kerrien Dates’ Confession
As police began to investigate the murder, they discovered that Sonya’s grandson, Kerrien Dates, had been living with her. Additionally, Sonya’s car, a blue 2020 Chevrolet Camaro, had gone missing. Surveillance cameras in Jackson, Tennessee, 85 miles away from Memphis, captured the vehicle’s license plate, which led authorities to identify Kerrien as the driver.
When police officers stopped Kerrien in the stolen car, he confessed to the crime. According to a police affidavit, Kerrien admitted, “I hit Sonya in the head with a hammer and I think I killed her.” This chilling statement confirmed that Kerrien had murdered his grandmother.
Motive and Background
It was revealed that Kerrien and Sonya had been involved in a heated argument before the attack. Sonya’s daughter had reportedly warned her mother to kick Kerrien out of the house for her own safety. Sonya was believed to have been returning home from somewhere when she was attacked, as she was still carrying a backpack and lunch bag when her body was discovered.
Charges and Legal Process
Kerrien Dates has been charged with first-degree murder and theft of property. He is currently being held at the Shelby County Jail and is scheduled for a court appearance on Monday. The community has been left in shock, with many struggling to understand how such a violent act could occur within a family.
Community Response
A neighbor of Sonya Dates, Tracey Holloman, described her as a kind and caring woman, adding, “It is sad to see she is gone. She didn’t bother anybody, she did not deserve it. I am praying for the family.” The tragic loss of Sonya Dates has deeply affected her family and the community. Kerrien’s violent actions have shattered the family bond and left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
As the legal process continues, the community remains in shock, struggling to come to terms with the senseless violence that took Sonya’s life. Those who knew her remember Sonya as a good person who did not deserve such a tragic and violent end.
Leave a Reply