It was a violent bar dispute.
Ricky Floyd, a well-known pastor in Memphis, was tragically shot and killed early Wednesday outside a bar. Floyd, 58, was the senior pastor of Pursuit of God Church in Frayser, where he was widely respected for his work in the community. Police found Floyd’s body near Momma’s Bar and Kitchen on Kentucky Road after responding to a call at 1:17 a.m. Samantha Marion, 42, has been charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection to the incident.
According to police reports, the altercation began with an argument inside the bar and escalated outside. Witnesses say Floyd became upset, throwing Marion’s phone and a beer can before driving off. Surveillance footage captured Marion standing in the street recording Floyd’s vehicle. After Floyd exited his car and confronted Marion, a brief altercation occurred before Marion allegedly shot Floyd, leaving him fatally wounded.
Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn Davis offered condolences, calling Floyd a valued community figure. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities believe they have enough evidence to pursue manslaughter charges against Marion. Chief Davis urged anyone with further information to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Floyd leaves behind a legacy of community service, having been actively involved in various local initiatives. He was the president of Eden Estates Apartments and founder of The Husband Institute, a program focused on mentoring boys and young men. His efforts to provide affordable housing and uplift the Frayser community were significant and widely appreciated.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young expressed sorrow over the tragedy, condemning the violence and calling Floyd’s death a major loss for the city. The mayor emphasized the need for cooperation among neighborhoods, faith communities, and law enforcement to address gun violence, while many remembered Floyd for his dedication to service and positive impact on the community.