Pastor Ricky Floyd Killed in Shooting Outside Momma’s Bar in Memphis: Suspect Samantha Marion in Custody, Voluntary Manslaughter Charge Pending
On the early morning of March 12, 2025, the Memphis community was rocked by the tragic and senseless killing of Pastor Ricky Floyd, a well-respected local leader and community advocate. Floyd was fatally shot outside Momma’s Bar, located at 855 Kentucky Street in Memphis. His death marks an immense loss, not only for his family and congregation but also for the wider Memphis community, where his contributions through his ministry and nonprofit work had a significant impact. As investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding this violent event, authorities have arrested 42-year-old Samantha Marion, who is now facing a charge of voluntary manslaughter.
This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the details surrounding the shooting, the life and legacy of Pastor Ricky Floyd, the events that led to his tragic death, the investigation process, and the response from the community and law enforcement.
The Victim: Pastor Ricky Floyd
Pastor Ricky Floyd was a well-known and beloved figure in the Memphis area. As the Senior Lead Pastor at Pursuit of God Transformation Center, Floyd was deeply involved in the spiritual and emotional development of his congregation. His passion for helping others extended beyond the church, as he was also the founder of Salvation Revelation Ministries, a nonprofit organization that focused on community development, outreach programs, and providing resources for those in need.
Floyd’s life was marked by his dedication to his faith and the welfare of others. Through his nonprofit work, he sought to address systemic issues in the community, providing support to underprivileged individuals and families in Memphis. His outreach efforts ranged from hosting food drives, offering counseling services, to advocating for social justice issues that impacted the local population. His ministry was known for its inclusivity, outreach, and the emphasis placed on spiritual growth and personal empowerment.
As news of his tragic death spread, members of his congregation, friends, and community leaders expressed shock, sadness, and disbelief. Many described him as a man of great compassion who always put others first. Those who knew him best recall his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, whether they were members of his congregation or people he met in the broader community. His sudden and violent death has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who were touched by his leadership and kindness.
The Shooting Incident: A Heated Argument Turns Deadly
The fatal shooting of Pastor Ricky Floyd occurred shortly after 1:20 a.m. on March 12, 2025, outside Momma’s Bar in Memphis. According to initial reports from law enforcement, police responded to gunfire outside the establishment. Upon arrival, officers discovered Floyd’s body, and it was soon confirmed that he had died from gunshot wounds.
The shooting was the result of a confrontation that reportedly began inside the bar. According to Memphis Police, witnesses observed a heated argument between Pastor Ricky Floyd and 42-year-old Samantha Marion, who was later arrested at the scene. While the precise cause of the argument remains under investigation, it is believed that the dispute escalated quickly after the two exchanged words.
Surveillance footage from the bar reportedly shows Floyd throwing Marion’s phone to the ground in frustration, and at one point, tossing a beer can during the argument. This suggests that the altercation became physical and heated before it spilled out into the parking lot, where the tragedy ultimately occurred.
After the altercation inside the bar, Floyd attempted to leave the scene. According to police reports, he stopped his vehicle, exited, and then began walking back toward Marion. This appears to have been a critical moment in the unfolding situation, as Marion allegedly pulled out a firearm at this point and shot Floyd, resulting in his death.
Authorities have yet to release more detailed information about the specific nature of the dispute, but the fact that it escalated from a verbal argument to physical confrontation and ultimately led to the loss of life has left many shocked and saddened.
Samantha Marion: The Suspect
Samantha Marion, the 42-year-old woman arrested in connection with the shooting, was taken into custody at the scene. She has since been charged with voluntary manslaughter, a charge that involves the unlawful killing of another person without prior intent or malice but in circumstances that suggest a degree of provocation. Marion’s exact motives remain under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the dispute between her and Pastor Floyd escalated quickly, ultimately leading to the fatal shooting.
According to the police, Marion was cooperative during her arrest, but authorities have not yet fully disclosed any further details about her background or any prior relationship with the victim. What is known at this time is that the argument was one of several factors leading to the deadly confrontation. Police will continue to look into Marion’s history, relationships, and any other possible factors that may have played a role in this tragic event.
At this time, it remains unclear whether Marion had a personal or professional relationship with Pastor Floyd, or whether the dispute had been brewing for some time. Investigators are reviewing all available evidence to understand the dynamics between the two individuals and the nature of their conflict.
The Investigation: Law Enforcement Efforts and Evidence Collection
Following the tragic events outside Momma’s Bar, Memphis Police quickly began their investigation into the shooting. Authorities were on the scene within minutes of the incident, and officers immediately secured the area to gather evidence and speak with witnesses.
Surveillance footage from the bar has been an essential part of the investigation. The footage reportedly shows the altercation inside the bar and the moments leading up to the shooting outside. This video evidence will likely play a crucial role in determining the precise sequence of events and the intentions of those involved in the argument.
In addition to the surveillance footage, law enforcement officials are interviewing witnesses who were present at the scene. These individuals could provide crucial insights into what led to the confrontation and how events unfolded after Floyd and Marion’s argument inside the bar.
Authorities are also conducting a thorough search of the crime scene to gather any forensic evidence that might shed light on the circumstances of the shooting. This includes collecting physical evidence such as shell casings, ballistic evidence, and any items that may have been discarded by the suspect or the victim during the altercation.
While Samantha Marion has been arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter, the investigation is ongoing, and Memphis Police have indicated that they are looking into the broader context of the incident. This includes examining any potential connections between the victim and the suspect, as well as exploring other leads that may explain why the argument escalated to violence.
The Community’s Response: Grief, Shock, and Support for the Floyd Family
The news of Pastor Ricky Floyd’s death has shaken not only his congregation but also the broader Memphis community. As a respected community leader, Floyd’s death represents a deep loss for the city, and the reactions have been overwhelmingly one of grief and sorrow.
Members of Pursuit of God Transformation Center, the church Floyd led, have expressed their shock and disbelief. Many have gathered to mourn together, supporting one another as they come to terms with the loss of their pastor and spiritual guide. In the wake of this tragedy, the congregation is also reflecting on Floyd’s impact and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
Community leaders and local organizations have also expressed their condolences, acknowledging the valuable contributions Floyd made to the city of Memphis. His nonprofit work, which aimed to uplift and support those in need, has had a lasting impact on many individuals and families in the area. The shooting has left a hole in the hearts of those who worked alongside Floyd in various initiatives, and his passing has prompted many to reflect on the importance of community and the need for peace and reconciliation.
What Comes Next: Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, the focus will shift toward understanding the precise circumstances surrounding the argument between Pastor Ricky Floyd and Samantha Marion. The legal process will determine whether Marion’s actions were a result of provocation or whether the shooting was an act of self-defense. The charge of voluntary manslaughter indicates that the prosecution believes there may have been a degree of provocation, but it remains to be seen how the case will proceed through the legal system.
Memphis residents and the wider community are eagerly awaiting further developments in the case, with many hoping for justice for Pastor Floyd and his family. As the investigation moves forward, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward and assist in the case.
Conclusion: A Community in Mourning and the Pursuit of Justice
The shooting death of Pastor Ricky Floyd outside Momma’s Bar has left the Memphis community in mourning. The events leading to the tragic incident are still under investigation, but the emotional and spiritual toll on the community is already being felt. Pastor Floyd’s contributions to the Memphis area through his ministry and nonprofit work have had a profound impact, and his loss will be deeply felt for years to come.
As authorities work to uncover more details about the case, the focus will remain on bringing justice to Pastor Floyd’s family and the Memphis community. Those who knew him are hopeful that the legal process will provide answers and allow for healing in the wake of this senseless tragedy.
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