Man Charged in Murder at South Memphis Apartment Complex

MEMPHIS, TN – Memphis police have charged a man in a murder at a South Memphis apartment complex.
Police have charged Mario Leavy, 23, with Second Degree Murder in the shooting death of 32 year-old Quarterus Simmons.

Memphis police and firefighters were called to an apartment complex in the 4600 block of Airways Boulevard, Friday December 19, 2008, about a reported fire. Investigators say firefighters had to force their way into the apartment to put out the blaze.

During a search of the burned apartment, both firefighters and police discovered Simmons’ body. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives say a bullet hole was discovered in the apartment next door to the burned unit. No one in that apartment was hurt.

The Shelby County Medical Examiner’s Office said Simmons died from multiple gunshot wounds. Police believe Leavy and Simmons knew each other and the shooting may have been the result of drug deal gone bad.