MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) - The Tennessee Highway Patrol is sending 30 troopers to the Memphis area to help combat an increase in interstate highway shootings.
The highway patrol held a news conference Wednesday announcing details of Operation Grizzly Bear.
The Commercial Appeal reports the additional troopers will join Memphis Police Department officers and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office deputies in patrolling Memphis’ highways, which include Interstate 40 and Interstate 240.
Tennessee Highway Patrol Capt. Jimmy Johnson says the current phase of the operation is taking place over a six-week period.
Memphis police say 32 interstate shootings have occurred this year. Police say most of the cases are caused by road rage.
Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland said officials will push legislators for harsher penalties for those who commit road rage shootings.
___
Information from: The Commercial Appeal, http://www.commercialappeal.com
Please read our comment policy before commenting.