‘Unimaginable loss’: High school senior shot, killed just hours after attending prom

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC/Gray News) - Memphis police say they have arrested a person in the weekend shooting death of a high school senior.

According to police, the shooting occurred during the early morning hours last Sunday at a Memphis-area gas station.

Officers at the scene said they found 18-year-old Ladainian Cathey suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to the hospital but did not survive his injuries.

Loved ones shared that Cathey had just attended his high school prom a few hours before the shooting. He was set to graduate from Southaven High School in May.

Desoto County School District leaders said the community is with Cathey’s family and friends.

“School officials are deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy. We ask that everyone keep the student’s family in their prayers during the days ahead,” the district shared in a statement. “Our hearts are with them as they face an unimaginable loss.”

Memphis police identified the suspected shooter as a 17-year-old. They said he was taken into custody later that day and charged with first-degree murder in the perpetration of a robbery.