Donnell T. Roberts Found Dead in Car Near Winridge Elementary School

A man believed to be Donnell T. Roberts was found dead inside a vehicle near Winridge Elementary School, according to early reports and information shared by witnesses.

Police activity in the area drew attention after reports surfaced of a body discovered inside a parked car. During live police scanner traffic, officers could be heard indicating that the victim appeared to have been shot. Authorities have not yet released an official statement confirming the cause of death.

Witnesses in the area reported that the vehicle had been parked near the school for as long as a week before it was discovered.

Friends and acquaintances of Roberts took to social media to share tributes and express their belief that the individual found was him. As of now, Memphis police have not publicly confirmed the victim’s identity.

Previously Reported as Missing

Roberts, 26, had previously been reported missing from Cordova, Tennessee. A $10,000 reward was offered for information leading to his location.

According to earlier reports, Roberts was last seen around 8:00 p.m. on December 22, 2025, after leaving for Whitehaven, Tennessee, but never arrived. He was last spotted in the area of Macon and Whitten roads, driving a white 2017 Nissan Altima with front bumper damage and Tennessee license plates.

A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) alert was issued on December 24, 2025. Roberts was described as standing 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing approximately 165 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white shirt and gray shorts.

Authorities have not yet said whether the vehicle found near Winridge Elementary School matches the description of Roberts’ car.

Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 901-379-7625 or the Detective Bureau at 901-222-5600.

The investigation remains ongoing.