Leah Carnes was fatally shot during a domestic dispute at the Centennial Gardens Apartments in southeast Shelby County on Monday night, February 16, 2026. Deputies responded to the 7800 block of Capital Peak Lane East around 6:15 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire in the parking lot of the complex. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office immediately launched a homicide investigation upon arrival.
Authorities confirmed that the confrontation began as an argument between two women and escalated into violence. Witnesses reported that the dispute spilled into the parking area, where one woman pulled out a firearm and shot Carnes. The scene quickly drew law enforcement attention, and deputies detained the alleged shooter at the complex while securing the area for investigators.
Carnes was rushed from the scene by a man who drove her to Methodist Germantown Hospital. Despite efforts by medical staff, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The sheriff’s office later confirmed her identity and noted that the investigation would focus on the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including the nature of the dispute and the relationship between the two women.
Detectives worked late into the evening gathering evidence from the parking lot, interviewing witnesses, and documenting the sequence of events. The Centennial Gardens Apartments, located in a busy residential area of southeast Shelby County, became the center of attention as neighbors expressed shock over the violence that unfolded in their community.
The woman accused of firing the fatal shot was taken into custody at the scene. Authorities have not yet released her name publicly, but they confirmed she is cooperating with investigators. The sheriff’s office emphasized that the case remains active, with charges expected to follow once the investigation is complete.
The incident has raised concerns about domestic disputes escalating into deadly encounters, particularly in residential complexes where families live in close quarters. Community members have called for increased awareness and intervention strategies to prevent similar tragedies. Law enforcement officials reiterated their commitment to thoroughly investigating the case and ensuring justice for Carnes and her family.
