On the evening of October 30, 2024, in the Northcrest subdivision of Ripley, Tennessee, 17-year-old Demarcus Tyrrelle Barnes was killed in a drive-by shooting. The attack happened at about 7:30 p.m.; a 16-year-old male was also wounded, suffering a gunshot to the leg.

Demarcus was a senior and a running back on the Ripley High School varsity football team. His death prompted widespread grief among students, faculty, and residents, and a memorial was set up outside the high school. Funeral services were held November 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Ripley, with visitations the day before and earlier the same day.

Law enforcement is actively investigating but has not announced any arrests or identified suspects. The Ripley Police Department has asked anyone with information to come forward.

If anyone knew Demarcus or has information about the shooting, please contact the Ripley Police Department.