Tragic Incident in East Memphis: 23-Year-Old Man Arrested After Grandmother Found Dead
EAST MEMPHIS, TN – A deeply unsettling tragedy has shaken the community of East Memphis after a 23-year-old man, identified as Keren Daties, was arrested in connection with the death of his grandmother, Sonia Daties. The incident occurred on June 4 in the quiet neighborhood of Colonial Acres, a usually peaceful area now rocked by shock and sorrow.
Details of the Incident
According to the Memphis Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check at a residence in Colonial Acres on Tuesday evening. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the body of Sonia Daties, believed to be in her 70s, inside the home. She was pronounced dead at the scene. While officials have not publicly disclosed the exact cause of death, they confirmed that the circumstances immediately appeared suspicious.
Compounding the concerns was the discovery that the woman’s vehicle was missing from the property. The car was later located elsewhere in the city, raising red flags for investigators and intensifying the urgency of the case.
Suspect in Custody
Following a swift investigation, police arrested Keren Daties, the victim’s grandson, on charges of first-degree murder and theft of property. Detectives have not revealed a motive at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.
Keren Daties was reportedly living with or near his grandmother, although the nature of their recent relationship is still under review. Sources familiar with the case suggest there may have been signs of tension in the household, but authorities are cautioning the public against jumping to conclusions as they work through the facts.
Community in Mourning
Neighbors and local residents are grappling with the shock of the crime, especially given its location in a relatively low-crime area. “She was a quiet, kind woman,” said one neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s heartbreaking to hear that something so violent could happen right next door — and at the hands of her own grandson.”
The local community is rallying together to support one another during this difficult time. A candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned in Sonia’s honor, and grief counselors will be made available through community outreach programs.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Keren Daties is now in custody and is facing charges of:
- First-degree murder
- Theft of property (related to the stolen vehicle)
He is expected to make his first court appearance within the next few days. If convicted of the murder charge, he could face life in prison or the death penalty under Tennessee law.
Police have urged anyone with further information about the case or interactions with either Keren or Sonia in recent weeks to come forward. “No detail is too small,” one detective said during a press briefing. “We’re committed to finding justice for Sonia and answers for this community.”
Ongoing Investigation
While the immediate suspect has been arrested, investigators are continuing to examine the scene, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to piece together a full picture of what led to the deadly confrontation. Forensics teams have been working diligently, and the autopsy results are expected to provide additional clarity.
Conclusion
The East Memphis community now finds itself in mourning as it processes the devastating loss of one of its own. As legal proceedings unfold, many are hoping for accountability and a better understanding of how such a horrific event came to pass. The arrest of Keren Daties marks a pivotal moment in this tragic case — but for those who knew and loved Sonia, the path to healing has only just begun.
Authorities have urged the public to stay informed through official updates and refrain from spreading unverified details as the investigation progresses.