Tennessee Man Accused of Shooting Wife, Stopping for Beer Before Taking Her to Hospital

A Memphis man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly shooting his wife during a heated argument, then stopping to buy beer before taking her to the hospital.

According to Shelby County court records, 51-year-old Decarlo Pitchford has been charged with attempted second-degree murder, domestic assault, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,500.

Incident Reported in West Junction Neighborhood

The alleged shooting happened on July 19 at a home on Fostoria Road in the West Junction area of southwest Memphis. Prosecutors say the confrontation began as a verbal dispute, but escalated when the victim tried to leave with her belongings. Pitchford allegedly blocked her path, holding a 9mm Ruger handgun.

Court documents state that during the argument, Pitchford fired a shot, striking his wife in the abdomen. “I told you to stop playing with me,” he allegedly told her after pulling the trigger.

Beer Stop Delays Trip to Hospital

After the shooting, authorities say Pitchford drove his wife to Methodist University Hospital in his Dodge Ram but made a stop along the way to buy a beer. By the time police arrived at the home in response to a shooting call, the residence was empty. Officers later learned the victim was at the hospital.

Defendant Claims Shooting Was Accidental

In her statement to investigators, the victim said the shooting was intentional. Pitchford, however, told police he was trying to clear a jammed gun when it accidentally discharged. He also admitted to possessing the firearm despite being a convicted felon.

The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office highlighted the case on social media as their “Case of the Day” earlier this week, following a judge’s ruling that there was probable cause to proceed with charges. Pitchford remains in custody as the case moves forward.

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