By JR Robinson, JustMyMemphis

An 18-year-old Memphis man accused of killing two students near Booker T. Washington High School will remain behind bars after a judge denied bond during a preliminary hearing held Tuesday.

Valdemar Patterson Held Without Bond

Valdemar Patterson faces two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the April 24 daylight shooting that claimed the lives of 17-year-old Christian Brown and 18-year-old Darrius Wadley. The shooting took place just steps from the high school, sending shockwaves through the South Memphis community.

During the hearing, Patterson’s defense requested that a bond be set, but Assistant District Attorney William Walsh argued against it, citing the seriousness of the charges and concerns for public safety. The judge found probable cause and ordered Patterson to remain in jail without bond as the case moves forward to a grand jury for possible indictment.

Details of the Shooting

According to police, the violence unfolded when an Infiniti vehicle entered the South City apartment complex at Mississippi Boulevard and Lauderdale. Surveillance footage showed four armed suspects exiting the car, walking through the complex, and opening fire on the two victims, who were struck multiple times.

New details revealed that as the suspects attempted to flee, Patterson was shot by gunfire coming from within the apartment complex. He fell out of the getaway vehicle and was later transported to a hospital for treatment.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have identified Patterson as one of the shooters but say the search continues for additional suspects involved in the deadly attack. The investigation remains active as police work to bring all those responsible to justice.