• WHO: Iysha Chapman, a 26-year-old Memphis woman.
  • WHAT: Allegedly shot a tow truck driver during a vehicle repossession attempt.
  • WHERE: Treadwell Street, Memphis, Tennessee.
  • WHEN: Wednesday at approximately 3:45 a.m.
  • STATUS: Chapman is charged with aggravated assault and held on $150,000 bond.

A Memphis woman is accused of shooting a tow truck driver during a vehicle repossession attempt after she allegedly tried to prevent the tow and drive her car away, according to authorities.

Iysha Chapman, 26, faces an aggravated assault charge following the incident on Treadwell Street in Memphis, Tennessee. Court records from Shelby County indicate Chapman is currently detained on a $150,000 bond.

What Happened

According to an affidavit of complaint, two employees of a towing and recovery company were carrying out a repossession order for a 2015 Lincoln MKC. On Wednesday at approximately 3:45 a.m., they arrived at an address on Treadwell Street in Memphis, Tennessee, where Chapman was residing.

One of the tow truck workers stated that upon their arrival, a woman, later identified as Chapman, approached the vehicle and requested to retrieve personal belongings. The workers reportedly allowed her to collect her items and advised her to contact the lien holder regarding the matter. However, when asked to return her keys, Chapman allegedly refused, stating, "you all will have to drag it." The worker then entered the tow truck to proceed with the repossession.

While the worker was inside the tow truck, he reported hearing Chapman say, "I will kill you," before allegedly firing a gunshot. The bullet struck the second tow truck worker, who was not inside the vehicle, in the shoulder. The injured worker then entered the tow truck, and both employees drove away from the scene and contacted emergency services, according to the affidavit.

Responding officers from the Memphis Police Department spoke with Chapman at the Treadwell Street location. She reportedly informed them she came outside and observed her vehicle being towed. Chapman claimed she had missed a payment on Monday but believed she had a five-day grace period. She further stated that she attempted to enter the vehicle and drive off, but one of the tow truck drivers allegedly prevented her from doing so by pushing her back. Chapman recounted feeling "helpless," which led her to retrieve a firearm from her purse and fire a shot, striking the male in the shoulder. Investigators later secured a search warrant and confiscated a teal .380 Glock pistol containing five live rounds. The wounded tow truck worker subsequently identified Chapman from a photo lineup, according to court documents.

The Charges Explained

Iysha Chapman has been charged with aggravated assault. In Tennessee, aggravated assault is a serious offense that can involve intentionally or knowingly causing serious bodily injury to another, using a deadly weapon, or committing assault by strangulation. The specific details of the charge against Chapman would relate to the alleged use of a firearm and causing injury to the tow truck driver.

How These Cases Move Through Court

In Tennessee's state court system, criminal cases typically begin with an arrest and the filing of charges, often followed by a bond hearing where a judge determines if the accused can be released from custody and under what conditions. The next step is usually an arraignment, where the defendant is formally read the charges and enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Depending on the severity of the alleged crime, a grand jury may review the evidence to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to issue an indictment, which formally moves the case to trial. If an indictment is issued, the case proceeds through pretrial motions, discovery, and potentially plea negotiations. If no plea agreement is reached, the case will go to trial, where a judge or jury will hear evidence and render a verdict. If convicted, the defendant will face sentencing by the court.

Context & Background

Violent crime, including assaults, remains a significant concern in urban areas across the United States. Incidents involving firearms during disputes, such as those related to property repossession, underscore underlying tensions that can escalate quickly. Law enforcement agencies frequently emphasize the dangers associated with armed confrontations, particularly when individuals react to stressful situations with violence rather than through established legal or civil processes.

Recognizing and Reporting Robbery

This incident is related to an alleged assault, not a crime of robbery. If you are a victim of or witness to a crime, it is critical to report it to law enforcement immediately. For emergencies, always dial 911. For non-emergency situations or to provide tips related to federal crimes, you can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).

What Happens Next

Chapman is scheduled to appear in court on Monday. During this appearance, the court will likely review the charges, her bond status, and set future dates for proceedings in her case.