MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A husband and wife have been arrested following a shooting at the Tequila Town Bar in northeast Memphis early Sunday morning.
Jose Montoya, 27, and his wife, Judith Ramirez, 26, face charges including criminal attempt first-degree murder, vandalism, and unlawful use of a firearm. The incident occurred just before 1 a.m. on June 15 at the bar located on N. White Station Road.
According to reports, Montoya became irate inside the bar, prompting a security guard to ask him to calm down. Montoya grew aggressive and was escorted out along with Ramirez. As they left, Montoya reportedly said, “Y’all done f*** up now.”
Ramirez told police that Montoya retrieved a gun from their car and fired shots at the security guard, who returned fire in self-defense. Montoya reloaded multiple times during the exchange before the couple fled the scene without assisting anyone.
One woman was critically injured and taken to Regional One Medical Center. Several vehicles were also damaged during the shooting.
Police later found the couple’s car on Josibpet Lane, discovering spent shell casings inside. Both Montoya and Ramirez were questioned; Ramirez gave conflicting statements, while Montoya refused to speak. A weapon was recovered from their home following a search warrant.
The shooting is part of a recent rise in violence outside Memphis restaurants. Local business owners are responding with increased security measures, including cameras, better lighting, and additional guards.
Montoya’s bond has been set at $250,000, and Ramirez faces a $300,000 bond.
