Authorities in Tennessee are searching for a teenager accused of shooting at a pre-prom gathering in Brownsville.
Shooting Incident
On May 8, 2026, at Webb F. Banks Passive Park, a pre-prom event turned deadly when 18-year-old Dequarius “DQ” Lax allegedly opened fire. The shooting killed 17-year-old Saturah Hayes and injured six others who were taking photos at the gathering.
Charges
Lax has been indicted on 22 charges, including:
- First-degree murder in the death of Saturah Hayes
- Six counts of attempted first-degree murder for the other victims
Authorities warn that Lax is considered armed and dangerous.
Public Appeal
The U.S. Marshals Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Lax. Prosecutors emphasized that anyone aiding him could face criminal charges.
Victim and Family Statement
Saturah Hayes’ mother, Astacia Hayes, expressed grief on Facebook, sharing her daughter’s last photo and writing:
“Why? Why? Why? Would y’all take my baby from me, away from her family and friends? I tried to protect her from stuff like this and the one time I knew she would be ok, her room is empty.”
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information about Lax’s whereabouts or the case is asked to contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND or Investigator Jimmy Wilson at [email protected] or 731-855-7813.
