Sonia Obituary, Death: Sonia, Beloved Grandmother and Longtime East Memphis Resident, Found Dead in Colonial Acres; Grandson Keren Daties, 23, Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Murder and Theft Following Shocking June 4 Incident
East Memphis, TN – The East Memphis community is reeling from a harrowing tragedy following the heartbreaking discovery of an elderly woman—identified as Sonia, a cherished grandmother and longtime local resident—who was found dead in her home in the Colonial Acres neighborhood on Tuesday, June 4, 2025. In a deeply disturbing turn of events, her own grandson, Keren Daties, age 23, has been arrested and charged in connection with her death.
Authorities say that Sonia’s death is being investigated as a homicide, and her grandson now faces first-degree murder and theft of property charges. Police launched a criminal investigation after discovering that the victim’s vehicle was missing from the residence; it was later recovered by law enforcement in an undisclosed location, deepening suspicions surrounding Daties’ involvement. The exact motive behind this violent act remains under investigation.
As loved ones struggle to comprehend the unimaginable circumstances surrounding Sonia’s untimely death, her life and legacy are being remembered by neighbors, family friends, and community members who are mourning the sudden and brutal loss of a woman they describe as gentle, generous, and deeply committed to her family.
A Grandmother Lost: Remembering Sonia’s Life and Spirit
Although limited personal details have been publicly released, those close to Sonia are beginning to speak out, painting a portrait of a woman who was not only a beloved family matriarch but also a steadfast and supportive presence in the East Memphis community. Sonia, believed to be in her late seventies or early eighties, was known for her devotion to her children and grandchildren, her friendly demeanor, and her commitment to maintaining strong ties with her neighbors.
“She was the kind of person who always waved when you drove by, offered you tea when you came over, and asked about your kids like they were her own,” said Marlene Davis, a neighbor of over twenty years. “You don’t expect this kind of thing to happen in a neighborhood like ours—and certainly not to someone like her.”
According to community members, Sonia had lived in Colonial Acres for decades. A familiar face in local grocery stores and church events, she was reportedly widowed years ago and lived alone but remained active and engaged, particularly with her grandchildren. Many describe her as an anchor of stability, especially during family or community hardships.
“Sonia helped babysit other neighborhood kids when their parents worked,” another neighbor recalled. “She was generous with her time, even as she aged.”
Her family history, while not fully public, includes several children and grandchildren, including Keren Daties, now the prime suspect in her death.
The Crime: What We Know So Far
The Memphis Police Department responded to a call at Sonia’s home on June 4 after receiving a request for a welfare check. According to reports, the family became concerned after failing to reach her by phone. Upon entering the residence, police found Sonia deceased. Investigators quickly determined the death was suspicious and potentially violent in nature.
Key details are still emerging, but the early investigation revealed that the victim’s vehicle was missing. That car was located later that day, allegedly in the possession of or linked to Keren Daties, leading officers to pursue him as a person of interest. He was detained shortly afterward and, following questioning, was formally arrested and charged with first-degree murder and theft.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of death pending the official autopsy report, but law enforcement sources close to the case have indicated signs of physical trauma were evident at the scene.
Keren Daties is currently being held at the Shelby County Jail, and no bond has been issued as of this writing. His first court appearance is expected later this week. Legal counsel for Daties has not yet released a public statement, and attempts to reach members of his immediate family have thus far been unsuccessful.
Family Tragedy Turned Criminal Investigation
This incident has left both family members and the larger community stunned. The possibility that a grandson could be involved in such a heinous act against his own grandmother has evoked disbelief, sorrow, and anger.
“Whatever the circumstances were, this is a deep violation—not just of law but of the sacred trust between a grandparent and grandchild,” said Reverend Marcus Ellison, a local faith leader and family counselor. “In our culture, our elders are to be cherished and protected. This goes against everything we teach about family and respect.”
Police have not publicly suggested a motive, but speculation abounds on whether mental health issues, drug use, or domestic conflict may have played a role in the alleged crime. While Keren Daties’ criminal background, if any, has not been disclosed, neighbors say they had seen him around the area sporadically and were aware that he sometimes stayed with his grandmother.
“It’s a tragedy either way,” one neighbor commented. “A woman is dead, and a young man has thrown his life away.”
Community in Mourning: Grief and Questions Linger
In the aftermath of the tragedy, neighbors and community organizations have come together to honor Sonia’s life and extend support to her surviving family members. A vigil is being planned in the Colonial Acres neighborhood park, where residents will gather to light candles and share memories.
Sonia’s church, whose name has not yet been publicly confirmed, is reportedly preparing a memorial service in the coming week. The congregation is also collecting donations for funeral expenses and to assist with any remaining household responsibilities.
“This is the kind of heartbreak that touches everyone,” said Angela Perez, a volunteer with a local grief support center. “Not just because of the crime, but because Sonia was known and loved. Her death leaves a real void.”
A Plea for Reflection and Justice
As the investigation continues, many in the community are calling for greater attention to the intersection of mental health, family dynamics, and elder care. This tragedy, they argue, reflects a broader issue that often goes unaddressed until it’s too late.
“We’ve seen a rise in elder abuse, financial exploitation, and unfortunately even violence,” said Dr. Lisa Hargrave, a professor of social work at the University of Memphis. “This case—while shocking—should spark a conversation about how we protect our aging population, especially when those closest to them may be struggling with substance abuse, mental illness, or financial pressures.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward. As more facts emerge, it is hoped that justice for Sonia will be fully served, and that her memory will not be defined by the violent act that ended her life, but rather by the decades of love, compassion, and kindness she shared with those around her.
In Loving Memory: Sonia [Last Name Not Released]
- Name: Sonia (last name not publicly disclosed at this time)
- Age: Estimated 70s–80s
- Date of death: June 4, 2025
- Location: Colonial Acres neighborhood, East Memphis, TN
- Survived by: Multiple children and grandchildren
- Charged in connection: Keren Daties, 23-year-old grandson, facing first-degree murder and theft charges
- Memorial services: To be announced by family and church leadership
- Community vigil: Colonial Acres Park, date pending
This case remains active and under investigation by the Memphis Police Department’s Homicide Division. Further updates will be released as new information is verified.
May Sonia’s memory be a blessing, and may her community continue to honor the life she led.
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