The City of Memphis has taken decisive action to protect neighborhood safety by declaring two convenience stores public nuisances and ordering their closure until further notice. The moves target Castalia Market at 1701 Castalia Street and Save a Stop No. 2 at 2757 Kimball Avenue, both of which have been the sites of repeated violent and drug‑related incidents.
Background on the closures
Between October 2024 and October 2026, Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to 229 calls at Castalia Market, also known as Community Grocery. Those calls resulted in 71 reports and 24 arrests for offenses ranging from homicide and armed robbery to aggravated assault, narcotics violations and firearm recoveries. MPD issued a written notice in April 2026 demanding that the owners mitigate the criminal activity, but calls continued.
Specific incidents at Castalia Market included armed threats against patrons in May 2026, a homicide inside the store in June 2026, and an aggravated assault in October 2026. Despite the notice, the pattern of violence persisted, prompting city officials to act.
Save a Stop No. 2 also deemed a problem property
MPD documented a similarly troubling record at Save a Stop No. 2. The store experienced two shootings in early 2025, one of which left a woman critically injured, and the seizure of four illegal gambling machines. A written nuisance‑abatement notice was served in July 2026, yet criminal activity continued.
In August 2026, police conducted a felony drug bust at the location, seizing cocaine, ecstasy, oxycodone, Xanax and marijuana. Early October, an employee was the victim of an armed aggravated assault, and a fleeing suspect fired multiple shots at officers, striking nearby property.
City response and next steps
Mayor‑appointed officials, MPD and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office worked together to issue the closure orders on Wednesday. In a statement, the Memphis Police Department emphasized its commitment to addressing problem properties, holding responsible parties accountable and protecting Memphis neighborhoods.
“Both locations have been the subject of repeated police responses, investigations, and enforcement actions. Despite prior notice and continued enforcement efforts, criminal activity persisted, creating serious safety concerns for the surrounding neighborhoods and businesses,” the department said.
The closures remain in effect until the owners can demonstrate that they have eliminated the sources of criminal activity and complied with all city and law‑enforcement requirements. Residents are encouraged to report any further incidents and to support local businesses that maintain safe, family‑friendly environments.
Impact on the community
Neighborhood leaders have welcomed the action, noting that the closures send a clear message that repeated criminal conduct will not be tolerated. The city plans to continue monitoring the properties and will work with community stakeholders to explore alternative uses that promote safety and economic vitality.
For updates on the status of the closures or to report concerns, residents can contact the Memphis Police Department’s non‑emergency line or visit the city’s official website.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
