A Memphis mother is facing first-degree murder charges after she allegedly shot and killed a 20-year-old man she discovered hiding under her 13-year-old daughter’s bed in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The incident occurred around 1:45 a.m. in the Walker Homes neighborhood. Memphis police responded to reports of a shooting and found Rodderius Morton lying in the front yard with a single gunshot wound to the back of the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kendra Scott, 36, was arrested at the scene. According to the police affidavit, Scott told officers she found the man under her child’s bed and stated, “I did what I had to do.”

Details Emerge
Further investigation revealed that Scott’s daughter had invited Morton into the house. The girl told police that her mother had previously warned her that if she ever brought a boy home, Scott would “put a hole in his a**.”

Scott has been charged with first-degree murder and employing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony. Her arraignment is scheduled for Friday.

Public Reaction
The case has sparked intense debate on social media. Many users have expressed support for Scott, viewing her actions as a mother’s protective instinct against a potential threat to her underage daughter. Some have even suggested starting a GoFundMe to support her legal defense. Others, however, have criticized the daughter’s decision and questioned whether the response was proportionate.

This tragic incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about child safety, parental responsibility, and the dangers young girls face in today’s society.

The investigation is continuing as authorities work to establish the full sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting.

Main Sources: Live 5 News (WMC), Memphis Police Department, RadarOnline, and local reports.