MMA veteran Shannon Ritch was released by Phoenix police after claiming self-defense in a deadly shooting during an altercation over a parking spot, with the investigation ongoing and charges pending review by the Maricopa County Attorney’s office.
Shannon “The Cannon” Ritch, a seasoned MMA veteran with over 140 professional fights, was released by Phoenix police after claiming self-defense in a fatal shooting last Saturday. The incident left one man dead.
FOX 10 in Phoenix broke the news first. Phoenix police later confirmed the details in a statement sent to MMA Fighting on Wednesday.
The altercation reportedly began over a parking spot at Twin Peaks, a local bar. Ritch got into an argument with 32-year-old Alejandro Samplina.
Here’s the full police statement:
“On June 15, 2024, around 9:20 p.m., officers responded to a shooting call at 3060 West Agua Fria Freeway. The call indicated at least one person was shot and the shooter was still onsite.”
“Officers arrived and detained Shannon Ritch without incident, recovering a firearm from his person. The victim, Alejandro Samplina, was found in the parking lot and transported to a local hospital by Phoenix Fire, where he was pronounced dead.”
“Homicide investigators took over the case. Preliminary findings showed Samplina had a dispute with Ritch over parking. During the argument, Samplina produced a knife and chased Ritch around his vehicle.”
“Ritch retrieved his handgun from his car’s open door. As Samplina approached with the knife in a threatening manner, Ritch fired one round, hitting Samplina. Ritch stayed on scene and cooperated with detectives.”
“His self-defense claim matched witness accounts and surveillance footage. He was released after the investigation; charges will be reviewed by Maricopa County Attorney’s office.”
Ritch has not been charged yet, but the investigation continues.
Throughout his career, Ritch has fought in numerous promotions and faced many top fighters. His record includes bouts against UFC veterans like Joe Riggs, Shonie Carter, Diego Sanchez, and UFC Hall of Famer Dan Severn.
He also competed in PRIDE Fighting Championships once, losing to UFC Hall of Famer Kazushi Sakuraba. In 2019, he fought in BKFC.
At 53 years old, Ritch holds an MMA record of 58-90 overall.