PHOENIX, AZ – A parking-related dispute in the parking lot of a north Phoenix Twin Peaks ended in tragedy when a 32-year-old man was shot and killed by MMA fighter Shannon “The Cannon” Ritch, who claimed self-defense, according to police.
The incident occurred around 9:20 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, near 31st Avenue and Beardsley Road. Officers responded to a call about a shooting and found Alejandro Samplina, 32, on the ground. He was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
An investigation revealed that the confrontation began over a parking issue. Ritch, 53, told officers that Samplina had a knife and chased him around his car.
“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 stated.
Detectives interviewed Ritch, whose self-defense claim was corroborated by witness statements and surveillance video.
Samplina was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Ritch was detained at the scene but released after the initial investigation.
Phoenix police say charges will be submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for review.
