Man Found Guilty of First-Degree Murder in Fatal Domestic Violence Shooting

Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found Travis Cohens guilty of First-Degree Murder in the fatal shooting of his ex-girlfriend, Teonka Gunn, and the attempted murder of her cousin. The conviction follows a four-day trial where the jury also found Cohen guilty of attempted murder, reckless endangerment, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

The tragic shooting took place on March 1, 2022, at Saint Court Apartments on North Watkins. Police responded to reports of gunfire and found Gunn lying outside her apartment with multiple gunshot wounds; she was pronounced dead at the scene. According to Gunn’s family, she had just been dropped off by her cousin when Cohen opened fire on the vehicle, then pursued Gunn and shot her at close range.

DA Steve Mulroy emphasized the dedication of the prosecutors and law enforcement in this case. “This heartbreaking loss is another stark reminder of the toll domestic violence takes on our community,” he said. “While no verdict can restore the life lost, we hope this outcome brings some measure of peace to Ms. Gunn’s family and sends a strong message that we will tirelessly pursue justice for victims.”

During the trial, 14 witnesses presented testimony supporting the prosecution’s case against Cohen, reinforcing the state’s commitment to addressing violent crimes and seeking justice for victims of domestic violence. The jury returned the guilty verdict on Thursday.