A 42-year-old woman in Memphis is facing serious charges after allegedly shooting and killing a well-known pastor earlier this year. She claims she acted in self-defense, but prosecutors say the evidence tells a different story.
Indictment and Charges
On August 26, a grand jury indicted Samantha Marion for the March 12 shooting of Pastor Ricky Floyd, 58. Her initial voluntary manslaughter charge was upgraded to:
Second-degree murder
Employing a firearm with intent to commit a felony
Reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon
She has posted a $100,000 bond and is free while awaiting trial, though no date has been set.
What Led to the Shooting
According to WMC, the conflict started outside Momma’s Bar in Memphis after Marion and Floyd got into an argument about religion. Floyd briefly left but later returned and confronted Marion.
Marion’s defense attorney released a cellphone video she recorded, which shows Floyd walking toward her as she repeatedly warns him to stop. Her lawyer argues that she feared for her life and only fired in self-defense.
Conflicting Accounts from Police and Prosecutors
At a June preliminary hearing, Patrolman Cordell Boyd testified that Marion’s self-defense claim “did not hold water.” He said Marion went back to her car to retrieve her gun during the argument, suggesting she could have left the scene instead of using deadly force.
Prosecutors added that surveillance footage appeared to show Floyd backing away at the time of the shooting. Other video reportedly showed Floyd throwing beer cans and Marion’s phone before the confrontation escalated.
Defense Stands Firm
Marion’s attorney, John Keith Perry, insists the video proves Floyd was aggressive and that Marion was left with no choice. “She defended herself when she was facing grave, grave danger,” Perry told WMC. He also argued that important details were missing from the affidavit filed by police.
Community Impact and Next Steps
Pastor Ricky Floyd was a respected community figure, and his death has deeply shaken Memphis residents. Meanwhile, Marion’s case continues to draw attention, with many watching closely as prosecutors and defense lawyers prepare for trial.
The tragic death of Pastor Ricky Floyd has sparked a heated legal battle over whether the shooting was an act of self-defense or an unnecessary use of deadly force. With conflicting accounts, video evidence, and heightened emotions, the upcoming trial is likely to be closely followed by both the community and beyond.
