State authorities are investigating a fatal shooting involving two Tennessee National Guard troops who shot and killed 20-year-old Tyrin Johnson in Memphis early Sunday morning. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) confirmed the incident and stated that the guardsmen opened fire during a foot chase around 4 a.m.

The shooting occurred as National Guard members were assisting Memphis police following reports of an armed individual. According to the TBI, the guardsmen engaged the man after he reportedly pointed a firearm at them. Memphis police corroborated this account, stating the troops fired after the man turned his weapon toward them.

The TBI has not provided further details on the exact circumstances that led to the shooting but has confirmed its ongoing investigation. The Tennessee National Guard has not yet issued a public comment in response to requests for information from ABC News.

This incident comes as the anniversary of the Trump administration's deployment of National Guard troops to U.S. cities approaches. Approximately 1,472 National Guardsmen remain stationed in Memphis, with additional deployments in New Orleans and a significant presence in Washington, D.C. These troops operate under Title 32 orders, funded federally but controlled by their respective governors, and typically perform support roles rather than direct law enforcement.

Local officials have expressed concern over the shooting. Memphis Mayor Paul Young described the incident as "unfortunate" but deferred further comment pending the outcome of the TBI investigation. He had previously voiced skepticism regarding the National Guard's deployment in Memphis.

State Sen. London Lamar, representing parts of Memphis, has called for a swift and transparent investigation by the TBI. She highlighted community anxiety regarding the rules of engagement for the National Guard and expressed a desire for clarity on the events leading to the use of deadly force.

The ACLU of Tennessee, through its executive director Miriam R. Nemeth, has also called for a comprehensive and independent review of the shooting. The organization seeks a full accounting of the incident involving the Tennessee National Guard and the civilian.

Questions remain about the specific rules of engagement that guided the National Guard troops' actions and how the situation escalated to the point of lethal force. The TBI's investigation is expected to provide further details as it progresses.