In a case that has sparked intense debate on social media about parental protection, self-defense, and teenage accountability, a Memphis mother is facing serious charges after fatally shooting a 20-year-old man she discovered hiding in her 13-year-old daughter’s bedroom.

According to Memphis Police Department reports, the incident occurred around 1:40–1:50 a.m. on July 16 (or early July 17), 2026, at a home in the 3000 block of Travis Road in the Walker Homes neighborhood. Kendra Scott, 36, returned home from work to find Rodderius (or Rodarius) Morton concealed under her daughter’s bed.

Scott told officers she “saw a dude under my kids’ bed, and I did what I had to do.” Morton was found shot in the back of the head near the front porch and was pronounced dead at the scene. Scott was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and employing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony. Her bond was set at $100,000.

A juvenile witness—Scott’s 13-year-old daughter—told investigators that she had sneaked Morton into the home through the back door around 1 a.m. When Scott arrived home shortly after, knocking loudly and yelling, the daughter eventually let her in. Morton was discovered hiding, leading to a verbal confrontation. As Morton was exiting the house, Scott allegedly shot him on the front porch.

The daughter reportedly revealed that her mother had previously warned her that if she ever brought a boy into the house, Scott would “put a hole in his a**.” The juvenile is expected to testify in the case.

Scott appeared in court on July 20, 2026. Her defense attorney, Blake Ballin, noted they are awaiting doorbell footage and an autopsy report and are considering Tennessee’s “Stand Your Ground” law, though details of any potential scuffle or accidental discharge remain unclear at this stage. Scott was ordered to have no contact with the victim’s family. She is due back in court on August 3.

The case has divided public opinion. Many online commenters view Scott as a protective mother defending her child from a dangerous situation involving an adult and a minor. Others criticize the daughter’s actions and argue the shooting went beyond self-defense, especially since Morton was leaving the home. Some have called for Scott’s release and even suggested starting a support fund.

This tragic incident underscores ongoing community concerns about youth safety, parental responsibility, and the complexities of self-defense laws in volatile home situations. The investigation continues.

Sources:

• WREG.com