MEMPHIS, TN – Tragedy struck a Memphis neighborhood after a 58-year-old woman was gruesomely murdered and her car stolen. Police have identified the woman’s grandson, Kerrien Dates, as the suspect.

Authorities responded to the grim scene Wednesday afternoon, where Sonya Dates was found by her daughter suffering from severe head injuries next to a bloody hammer. Despite efforts from arriving paramedics, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examination later confirmed the cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head, inflicted by the discovered hammer.

Investigators quickly learned from Sonya’s daughter that her 23-year-old son had been living with his grandmother. The absence of Sonya’s blue 2020 Chevrolet Camaro added another layer to the investigation as officers began tracking the missing vehicle.

The vehicle was soon located nearly 85 miles northeast in Jackson, Tennessee, where it was captured by license plate recognition cameras. Kerrien Dates was found driving the stolen car and was subsequently apprehended by local police officers. Notably, upon being stopped, Kerrien reportedly confessed to hitting his grandmother with a hammer, acknowledging the severity of his actions.

Family turmoil may have played a role in the tragedy. Sonya’s daughter informed authorities that there had been ongoing disputes between Kerrien and his grandmother. She had even advised Sonya to evict her son for safety reasons, according to the police.

Evidence suggested that Sonya was likely ambushed as she returned home, as she was still carrying a backpack and lunch bag when discovered by her daughter.

The Memphis Police Department has since charged Kerrien Dates with first-degree murder and theft. He remains in custody at the Shelby County Jail with his court date set for Monday.

The loss of Sonya Dates has left a deep void in the community. Neighbor Tracey Holloman expressed sorrow, describing Sonya as a kind-hearted person who kept to herself. “It’s heartbreaking to see her life end this way,” Holloman said. “She didn’t deserve this. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.”