Shannon Ritch claims self-defense in deadly shooting over parking dispute
Shannon Ritch, a professional mixed martial artist known as “The Cannon”, shot and killed a man in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday, June 15.
Ritch, 53, is claiming self-defense and as of press time, no charges have been filed against him.
According to reports, Alejandro Samplina, 32, was allegedly shot and killed by Ritch over an issue over parking at the Twin Peaks restaurant. Ritch told officers that Samplina had a knife and chased him around his car. The parking issue that allegedly resulted in the shooting has not yet been released.
“Ritch was able to retrieve his handgun from the open door of his vehicle. Samplina proceeded to walk towards Ritch with the knife in a threatening manner. In response, Ritch fired one round, striking Samplina,” Phoenix Police Sgt. Mayra Reeson said.
Ritch stayed in the area and provided “a self-defense claim consistent with witnesses and surveillance video.” Samplina later died at a hospital, and Ritch was released without issue.
Phoenix Police say charges will be submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for review.
Ritch, who last fought professionally in 2020, holds a known record of 58-90, but as a competitor who fought in the late 1990s and often times on smaller cards his record may exceed that. He is also an active Hollywood stuntman, a firearms instructor and an executive protection specialist.
