A Memphis mother is facing a first-degree murder charge after police say a man who had been hiding under her child’s bed was later found shot dead near the front porch of a Southwest Memphis home.
The victim, identified by authorities as Rodderius Morton, was discovered after officers responded to a shooting call in the 3000 block of Travis Road. Investigators say they arrested Kendra Scott and charged her with first-degree murder and employing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony. She is scheduled to appear in court Monday, July 20.
How Investigators Say It Unfolded
A juvenile who lives at the house told investigators that Morton had been invited inside and came in through the back door around 1:00 a.m. Scott, the juvenile said, returned about 1:30 a.m. and knocked loudly before an argument broke out on the front porch, according to reporting by WREG.
The juvenile reported hearing a single gunshot. Officers later found Morton hiding under the juvenile’s bedroom bed, police said.
Statements From The Scene
"I saw a dude under my kids’ bed, and I did what I had to do," Scott allegedly told investigators, according to WREG.
Neighbors told investigators they heard banging and saw a man shot near the front porch. One neighbor said he saw Scott in the front yard saying, "I shot him, I shot him" while still holding a gun, according to police records.
Charges And Next Steps
Scott has been booked on counts of first-degree murder and employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony. Police say Morton died of a gunshot wound to the back of his head.
Authorities said no bond had been set at the time of the initial report, and the investigation remains active. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 20 in Memphis, where prosecutors are expected to outline the evidence as detectives continue to interview witnesses.
What Neighbors And Family Told Investigators
A juvenile told detectives she had been afraid of Scott because the woman had previously threatened that "if she sees a boy in the house, then I will put a hole in his a**," and said she had seen Scott with a gun and that Scott was visibly angry.
Neighbors and investigators describe a chaotic scene in the hours after the shooting as police worked to piece together the timeline. Officials have asked anyone with information to contact Memphis police as detectives continue their work.
Prosecutors will review the investigation and decide whether to file additional charges as evidence is gathered. The case will move through pretrial proceedings in Memphis courts, and the district attorney’s office will determine how to proceed. This story will be updated as court filings or official statements become available.
