Memphis, Tennessee — A Tennessee mother is facing a first-degree murder charge after police say she fatally shot a man she discovered hiding under her daughter’s bed during a confrontation at her Memphis home.
According to the Memphis Police Department, 36-year-old Kendra Scott was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony in connection with the death of 20-year-old Rodderius Morton.
Investigators allege the shooting occurred early Wednesday morning at a residence on Travis Road in Memphis’ Walker Homes neighborhood.
Police Say Victim Was Found Outside With Gunshot Wound
Officers responded to the home at approximately 1:45 a.m. after receiving reports of a shooting.
When they arrived, they found Morton lying near the front porch with a gunshot wound to the back of his head, according to court documents.
He was pronounced dead after the incident. According to the arrest affidavit, Scott allegedly told responding officers:
“I saw a dude under my kids’ bed, and I did what I had to do.”
Police later identified Scott as the woman who made the statement.
Witnesses Describe Events Leading Up to Shooting
Investigators interviewed a neighbor who reported hearing loud banging before going outside.
The neighbor allegedly saw Morton lying wounded near the porch and claimed Scott was standing nearby holding a firearm while repeatedly saying:
“I shot him, I shot him.”
Police also interviewed a juvenile girl who was inside the home when the incident unfolded. According to investigators, the girl said Morton had been invited into the house through the back door around 1 a.m.
She told detectives Scott returned home roughly 30 minutes later, loudly knocking on the front door while yelling:
“Who’s at my house?”
Police Say Victim Was Hiding Under Bed
According to the affidavit, the juvenile told investigators she feared Scott because she appeared angry and was carrying a gun.
The girl also claimed Scott had previously warned her:
“If I see a boy in the house, then I will put a hole in his a—.”
After the front door was opened, police say Scott entered the residence while Morton was hiding underneath the girl’s bed. Investigators allege Scott found him there, leading to a verbal confrontation.
According to the witness, Scott repeatedly yelled:
“Get out of my house, b—.”
Police say Morton then attempted to leave the residence and made it to the front porch before a single gunshot was fired.
Murder Charge Filed as Investigation Continues
Authorities allege Scott fired the fatal shot after Morton had reached the porch outside the home.
She was arrested and booked into the Shelby County Jail, where she is currently being held without bond. Scott is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.
The allegations against Scott are contained in court documents and police affidavits. She has been charged but has not been convicted, and the charges remain allegations unless proven in court.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe incidents like this highlight the importance of understanding self-defense laws and legal responsibilities? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
