MATA boots security firm after guard shoots a customer
The Memphis Area Transit Authority announced Monday morning they will no longer contract with Ambassador Worldwide Protection Agency after one of the firm’s guards reportedly shot a customer following an argument with a MATA bus driver.
The security guard, Milz Mayhorn, 28, was charged with aggravated assault after the shooting around 7:30 a.m. Friday, near the William Hudson Transit Center at A.W. Willis Avenue and North Second Street in Downtown.
Additionally, MATA is launching an internal review of their public safety measures and procedures, according to MATA spokesperson Nicole Lacey.
The investigation will be led by Dale Lane, the former director of the Shelby County Office of Preparedness.
“Lane (who has agreed to assist MATA in a contract role) will review current public safety and security services and practices, provide recommendations to MATA regarding its public safety and security measures and ensure that MATA operates a safe and secure transit system for its customers, employees and the public,” Lacey wrote in a statement to the press.
Lacey noted the William Hudson transit center was the only MATA facility to use the services of Ambassador.
“Global Security Services LLC is now providing security services at the William Hudson Transit Center until further notice,” Lacey said.
Mayhorn posted a $10,000 bond on the same day he was arrested, and was due back in court for arraignment Monday morning.
According to the arrest affidavit, Mayhorn gave a written statement to the police that, “advised that he warned the victim that he would shoot him in the leg if he didn’t come with him, and stated that he shot (the victim) after he wouldn’t come with him to write his report.”
Reach Micaela Watts at micaela.watts@commercialappeal.com