Memphis, Tennessee – Jaylen McCollins, a suspect in a double homicide case, has been arrested by Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies. McCollins was taken into custody off Madison Avenue in Downtown Memphis. He had been on the run for over a month following the fatal shooting of his former girlfriend, Anony Stewart, and her mother’s partner, Gary Newman, on July 1, 2024.
The tragic incident occurred in the 7600 block of Newfound Gap in Southeast Shelby County. Surveillance footage revealed McCollins forcibly entering the home and attacking Stewart. Both Stewart and Newman were found deceased at the scene. Prior to the shooting, McCollins had reportedly been in a relationship with Stewart and had a history of assaulting her.
The arrest of McCollins brings a measure of relief to the victims’ grieving family, who have been anxiously waiting for justice. Frank Gotti, Stewart’s uncle and a prominent anti-violence advocate, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his niece, describing her as a compassionate young woman. Gotti highlighted the emotional impact on Stewart’s teenage brother, who was present during the shooting but was not harmed.
The Shelby County community has been deeply affected by the tragedy. Many community members have voiced their support for the victims’ family and called for justice. The apprehension of McCollins, who had been considered armed and dangerous, ends a six-week manhunt.
Following the news of McCollins’ arrest, various individuals took to Facebook to express their reactions. Comments ranged from relief to calls for further action:
- Hope Mitchell commented, "Get em."
- Gregg Patty remarked, "He looks like a fine upstanding young man. Don’t drop the soap."
- Frank E Gottie shared, "First time I can honestly say I appreciate yall catching this mf."
- Jason Jones posted, "Hell he’s gonna be out and running from bond and court in a week. Arrest only works when he has to stay and pay for what he did."
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, particularly its Fugitive Apprehension Team and Burglary Robbery Auto Theft unit, played a crucial role in capturing McCollins. The community and law enforcement alike hope that McCollins’ arrest will bring some peace to the families of Anony Stewart and Gary Newman as they seek justice in the coming legal proceedings.