Pastor Ricky Floyd, a prominent Memphis community leader, was fatally shot early Wednesday morning during a dispute outside a bar.

According to the Christian Post, the incident involved a confrontation with a woman named Samantha Marion, who has since been charged with voluntary manslaughter.

The Dispute Begins Indoors

The altercation that led to the death of Pastor Ricky Floyd, aged 58, began inside Momma's Bar and Kitchen in Memphis. According to reports, Floyd and 42-year-old Samantha Marion were involved in an argument that eventually escalated and moved outside.

Memphis Police responded to the scene after receiving a distress call at 1:17 a.m. It was Marion herself who had contacted the authorities, reporting the shooting incident which she claimed followed an increasingly heated dispute.

Surveillance Footage Reveals Confrontation Details

Surveillance cameras captured the moments leading to the tragic event. The footage showed Floyd appearing irate, throwing Marion's phone and a beer can. He then left the scene in his vehicle, only to return shortly after and re-engage with Marion.

The confrontation culminated in Floyd falling to the ground after Marion walked toward him. Tragically, he did not rise again. Meanwhile, Marion remained at the scene, ultimately calling the police to report the incident.

Community Mourns a Beloved Leader

Pastor Ricky Floyd was not only a religious leader but a pillar in the Frayser community. As the senior lead pastor at Pursuit of God Church, he dedicated his life to various social initiatives. He served as president of a local apartment complex and a mentoring program, aiming to transform and uplift the community he cherished.

Memphis Police Department Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis expressed deep sorrow over Floyd's death, recognizing his significant impact on the community. "Pastor Floyd was a respected leader in our community, both in Memphis and beyond," Davis said, adding a call for those with additional information to come forward as investigations continue.

Reflections on Pastor Floyd's Legacy

Amid the grieving, those who knew Pastor Floyd shared their memories and the essence of his contributions. Telisa Franklin, Floyd's media liaison, described him as a servant leader who genuinely cared about his community. "He was truly a leader that cared about God, his family, and the people," Franklin remarked.

Memphis Mayor Paul Young also lamented the loss, emphasizing the broader social issues reflected in Floyd’s death. "Pastor Floyd was a beloved leader, friend, mentor, and servant to our city," stated Young. He called for action against the epidemic of gun violence, highlighting its destructive ripple effects across communities.

A Community Calls for Justice and Remembrance

As investigations continue, the community remains focused on honoring Pastor Floyd's legacy and seeking justice. Pastor Floyd is survived by his wife Sheila, three adult children, a daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters, all of whom are now mourning an irreplaceable loss.

The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked a wider discussion on violence, resilience, and the path toward healing in Memphis. As this city grapples with another act of senseless violence, the memory of Ricky Floyd's dedication to service and community uplift remains a beacon for those seeking to create a safer, more inclusive environment.