Memphis Family Filed Lawsuit Over Fatal Police Shooting
The family of Timothy Cook is seeking $35 million in a lawsuit after he died following a 2025 police shooting.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Law Enforcement
The family of Timothy Cook filed a $35 million lawsuit against the City of Memphis, alleging officers fatally shot Cook as he drove away from a liquor store on June 13, 2025. Cook died three days later at Regional One Health from injuries sustained during the incident.
Why it matters
The federal lawsuit alleges that the Memphis Police Department failed to properly train officers Terrianus Hall and Timothy Davis, who are named as defendants. The complaint highlights significant concerns regarding police conduct and accountability in the city.
The lawsuit was initially filed in Shelby County Circuit Court on June 9, 2026, before being moved to federal court. An autopsy confirmed that Cook sustained two gunshot wounds, one in the back of the head and one in the back.
The players
Timothy Cook
He was a man who died following a police-involved shooting in Memphis.
Terrianus Hall
He is an officer with the Memphis Police Department named as a defendant in the lawsuit.
Timothy Davis
He is an officer with the Memphis Police Department named as a defendant in the lawsuit.
Memphis Police Department
This is the law enforcement agency facing allegations of failure to properly train its officers.
The details
The complaint alleges that officers shot through the rear window of a van as Cook fled the scene, causing the vehicle to crash into a bus stop. The legal action seeks damages for the fatal outcome of the confrontation.
Timeline
June 13, 2025: Timothy Cook was shot by Memphis police.
June 16, 2025: Timothy Cook died at Regional One Health.
June 9, 2026: Lawsuit was initially filed in Shelby County Circuit Court.
Legal Context
This case mirrors local trends in police litigation following the 2023 Tyre Nichols investigation, which fundamentally altered scrutiny of city force policies. The current action represents a continuation of civil challenges regarding departmental training standards.
The transition of this case to federal court suggests a protracted legal battle that may result in new oversight or training mandates for local officers. Residents should monitor potential adjustments to departmental policies that could affect public safety protocols.
The takeaway
The move to federal court marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings against the city. Observers should watch for future discovery phases that may reveal more details about departmental training policies.
Further reading
For more information on local judicial actions, visit the Law Enforcement section.
