MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - The Memphis Police Department has fired an officer for an August car accident that killed two people and injured two others.
Officer Alex Beard, 23, was responding to a call for backup in "non-emergency mode" when the crash occurred at about 3 p.m. at E H Crump Blvd and Walnut Road on August 26.
Witnesses said Beard was speeding when he struck the passenger side of a 1996 Mercury Mystique that was trying to turn left. Killed were 54-year-old Delores Epps and 13-year-old Mackala Ross. They were visiting from Senatobia, Miss., for a relative's 50th birthday party.
The driver, 48-year-old Michael Ross, was transported to The MED on critical condition. Another passenger was treated and released.
During a Feb. 18 administrative hearing, MPD terminated Beard on departmental charges of Compliance with Regulations to wit: Response to Call, Personal Conduct, and Damage to Motor Vehicle. Alex Beard had been employed by MPD since October 2010.
The case has been turned over to the District Attorney's office for review to determine if criminal charges will be filed.
"More than anything, I hope the public knows the police department takes public safety seriously," stated Memphis Police Director Toney Armstong.
He added, the department takes misconduct by officers just as seriously.
"It won't be tolerated. Regardless of how long it takes us to get the truth, and regardless of how long it takes for us to hold these hearings, we're going to be vigilant about it."
