A former U.S. Army veteran faces a first-degree murder charge after fatally shooting a homeless man in Memphis following a confrontation. Karl P. Loucks, 41, was arrested on May 31 in connection with the death of Shaun Rhea, who lived on the streets of downtown Memphis. Testimony from a security guard and a police sergeant at a preliminary hearing indicated that Loucks pepper-sprayed Rhea before shooting him with an automatic rifle.
According to witness accounts, Loucks pepper-sprayed Rhea and other homeless individuals while they were sleeping. Rhea then confronted Loucks, who responded by pulling out a knife. In a subsequent interaction, Rhea hurled an electric scooter at Loucks, who later returned with a rifle concealed under an orange jacket and fired multiple shots, fatally striking Rhea in the back.
During the hearing, it was revealed that Loucks, who served in Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010 and left the Army with the rank of private first class due to post-traumatic stress disorder, claimed he acted in self-defense when questioned by the police. His attorney, Blake Ballin, emphasized the importance of considering Loucks’ mental health in the context of the incident.
The court viewed video footage of the shooting, while supporters of both Loucks and Rhea were present in the courtroom. Loucks remains in custody without bond, facing charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault. The judge acknowledged the potential impact of Loucks’ military service on the case, pointing out the complex nature of the situation.
Memphis police are investigating whether Loucks had previous altercations with homeless individuals, including a stabbing incident prior to Rhea’s death on May 25. The case has raised questions about the factors influencing Loucks’ actions and the role of his military background in the tragic event.
