MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - The state of Tennessee is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension, arrest, and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Lorenzen Wright.
“It is my hope that this reward offer leads to information about who committed this crime,” Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said. “Lorenzen Wright’s family has been through a lot, and they deserve answers.”
The total reward now being offered is up to $11,000. Should another party issue a reward, however, the governor’s office will match it up to $5,000.
Wright’s body was found July 28, 2010, in southeast Shelby County. The cause of death was subsequently ruled as homicide by gunshot wound. Despite efforts by law enforcement, however, the crime is still unsolved.
After the one-year anniversary of Wright’s death, Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong, and Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich felt additional reward monies would be helpful in solving the case.
“With every unsolved homicide, the tragedy within the tragedy is that the victim’s family and loved ones do not know what exactly befell them or who to look to for justice,” said Mayor Wharton. “I am hopeful that the additional reward from the state will help bring a conclusion to this case.”
Since Wright’s death, MPD has only received 28 Crime Stoppers tips related to the case. Unfortunately, none of those tips generated information that led to an arrest.
“I am hopeful that two things are accomplished by Governor Haslam’s reward: Others will be motivated to issue a reward and Lorenzen Wright’s killer or killers will be brought to justice,” said Shelby County District Attorney Weirich.
Anyone with information about this homicide or any other crime should call Crime Stoppers at 528-CASH. Callers will be given a secret ID number and their identity will remain completely anonymous.
“We have worked many hours on this investigation. As with all investigations, we will continue to work diligently to find the person or persons responsible,” said MPD Director Armstrong. “I can assure you that our investigators are persistent and will not give up.”
