Tennessee Mother Arrested After Fatal Shooting Involving Man Found Inside Daughter’s Bedroom

A late-night incident at a Memphis, Tennessee, residence has led to a murder investigation after a 20-year-old man was found dead outside a family home, with police alleging that the homeowner confronted him after discovering him inside her teenage daughter’s bedroom.

Authorities arrested 36-year-old Kendra Scott following the July 16, 2026, incident at her home. Investigators said the case began after Scott’s 13-year-old daughter invited 20-year-old Rodderius Morton into the residence. The events that followed resulted in a fatal shooting and left two families dealing with the consequences of a confrontation that quickly escalated.

According to information contained in a police affidavit, officers responded to the home in Memphis’ Walker Homes neighborhood during the early morning hours after receiving reports of a shooting. Investigators later determined that Morton had been inside the residence before he was found outside with a fatal gunshot injury.

The case has drawn attention because of the conflicting circumstances surrounding the incident. Prosecutors are examining whether Scott’s actions were criminal, while her defense attorney has suggested that the situation involved a parent reacting to what she believed was a serious threat involving her child.

Police Investigation Begins After Early Morning Shooting

Investigators said Morton arrived at Scott’s home at approximately 1 a.m. on July 16. According to the affidavit, Scott’s teenage daughter had invited him inside.

Police documents state that roughly 30 minutes after Morton entered the home, Scott returned and began knocking on the front door. Authorities said the daughter reported hearing her mother asking who was inside the residence.

The teenager allegedly told investigators that she saw her mother carrying a firearm at the time. According to police, the girl also recalled previous statements from her mother warning that she would respond aggressively if she ever found a boy inside the home.

The situation changed when the daughter opened the door and Scott entered the residence. Investigators said Scott discovered Morton hiding beneath her daughter’s bed.

Police said Scott ordered Morton to leave the home. According to the affidavit, Morton then moved toward the front door and exited the residence.

Shortly afterward, a gunshot was heard in the neighborhood.

Officers arrived at the home on the 3000 block of Travis Road at approximately 1:45 a.m. They found Morton in the front yard suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders determined that he had died at the scene.

Investigators collected evidence from the area, including a spent shell casing and a Smith & Wesson handgun. Police said Scott was taken into custody and transported for questioning.