The riots and massacres occurred in Memphis Tennesee from May 1-3 1866. The riot involved 6 Memphis police officers who fired at a group of protesters who were speaking out about the arrest of 2 black community members. After the police fired at and injured some group members, the group fought back. The police and nearby groups of white people joined in the fight and beat down and killed many black protestors. The confrontation resulted in 46 black casualties and $50,000 worth of damages to black churches, schools, and homes.