Memphis police have confirmed the tragic death of local musician Blake Rhea, who was fatally shot outside a Midtown bar early Wednesday morning. The shooting, which took place near Louis Connolly’s Bar on South Cleveland Street in the Central Gardens area, has left the Memphis music community in mourning as authorities work to piece together the details surrounding the violent incident.
According to Memphis Police, 51-year-old Edward Wurl has been arrested and charged with First Degree Murder and Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon in connection with the shooting. The arrest came on Thursday, just hours after the fatal altercation. Police say that Wurl and Rhea were involved in a verbal dispute inside the bar before the situation escalated to violence outside.
Court documents reveal that the argument between Rhea, a well-known figure in the Memphis music scene, and Wurl grew heated inside the bar. Surveillance footage from the establishment captured the moments leading up to the shooting, showing Rhea and Wurl conversing near the entrance. After a brief exchange, Rhea was seen walking away toward his vehicle, seemingly attempting to de-escalate the situation. However, Wurl followed him, reportedly holding a knife.
The footage shows a struggle near Rhea’s car, with Wurl allegedly drawing a firearm during the confrontation. In a calm and calculated manner, Wurl then shot Rhea before walking away from the scene. Memphis police responded to the call at around 1:05 a.m. and arrived to find Rhea outside the bar, where he was later pronounced dead.
Investigators have speculated that the ongoing tension between Wurl and Rhea might have been fueled by a shared romantic history. Sources close to the case suggest that both men had been romantically involved with the same woman, a personal connection that may have escalated the dispute. However, the investigation into the shooting continues as authorities seek to confirm all the details surrounding the events.
In addition to the First Degree Murder charge, Wurl is also facing a charge for illegally possessing a firearm. Court records indicate that Wurl has a criminal history, having been convicted of burglary and unlawful wounding in 1994. As a convicted felon, Wurl is prohibited from owning or carrying a firearm. This prior conviction has played a key role in the charges brought against him in this case.
The Midtown community, particularly the local music scene, has been deeply affected by the death of Blake Rhea. Known for his contributions to the city’s rich musical culture, Rhea was admired by fans and fellow musicians alike. His untimely death has left many in the area grieving the loss of an artist who brought life and energy to the stage.
As the investigation continues, Memphis Police are working to uncover further details about the events that led to the shooting. They have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges or information emerging as the case unfolds. In the meantime, the city mourns the loss of Blake Rhea, a beloved local musician whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence.
The shooting has once again highlighted the issue of gun violence in Memphis, a city that has seen a troubling rise in such incidents in recent years. Local officials and residents alike are grappling with the implications of the violence, which has claimed another life in a community already grappling with significant challenges. As authorities continue their investigation, the memory of Blake Rhea lives on, with many reflecting on his impact on the Memphis music scene and the deep void his passing has left in the community.
