Cierra Otis Jr. dies in fatal Memphis shooting
Memphis authorities have arrested a 24-year-old man regarding a fatal shooting at a Cache 42 location, which resulted in the death of a 19-year-old high school graduate and left others wounded.
Jerod Lawson faces multiple charges, including three counts of attempted first-degree murder.
The fatal shooting incident at Cache 42 on Hacks Cross Road has been under investigation for more than two weeks. The deceased was 19-year-old Cierra Otis Jr., a recent high school graduate. The attack also left a 16-year-old and a 19-year-old with minor injuries.
Cierra Otis Jr.’s mother, Barbara White, expressed her grief over the incident.
“The act of shooting into a crowd with numerous people present is unacceptable,” White shared.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office secured an arrest warrant at a home on Whitten View Lane, leading to the apprehension of 24-year-old Jerod Lawson. He is considered one of the shooters involved in the deadly event.
Court records reveal that Lawson was previously charged with aggravated assault in 2021 for an incident involving a woman in her vehicle. He pleaded guilty and was placed under judicial diversion in 2022. This program allows individuals to avoid criminal charges and have their records cleared if they remain crime-free for a set period. However, his diversion was terminated in June 2025, resulting in a new arrest warrant.
Barbara White believes that Lawson should never have been released, citing his prior offenses.
“It’s a common issue in Memphis. It feels as though taking lives without justification is considered normal, and murderers walk freely,” she stated. “We are charged with minor offenses, yet dangerous individuals roam free. There’s no reason for such acts. It’s simply not right.”
Cierra Otis Jr.’s funeral is planned for this weekend.
“We seek justice for our son. If you have information, please come forward. It’s not about informing on someone; it’s about ensuring justice,” White pleaded. “He deserved justice.”
Scheduled for December 31, 2025, is Lawson’s court appearance.
Investigators have indicated that more arrests are expected as the case continues.
Anyone with information is urged to contact SCSO detectives at 901-379-7625 or Crimestoppers at 901-528-CASH.
