MMA fighter claims self-defense in fatal shooting
Phoenix – A 32-year-old man and mixed martial artist was killed in what police say was self-defense after a parking-related incident in a Twin Peaks parking lot in north Phoenix, police said.
Around 9:20 p.m. 31st Street and Beardsley Road On Saturday, June 15, officers responded to the scene after receiving reports that a person had been shot and that the shooter was still in the area.
An investigation revealed that Alejandro Sampurina, 32, was allegedly shot and killed by Shannon Ricci, 53, over a parking dispute. Ricci told police that Sampurina had a knife and chased him around his vehicle.
“Ricci was able to retrieve a handgun from the open door of the vehicle. Sampurina then walked toward Rich in a threatening manner while holding a knife. Rich returned fire, firing one shot, striking Sampurina,” said Sergeant Myra Leeson with the Phoenix Police Department.
Sampurina was taken to hospital where he died.
Ricci remained at the scene and “claimed self-defense consistent with witness and security footage.” Police released the suspect.
Phoenix police say the charges will be submitted to the Maricopa County Prosecutor's Office for review.
ESPN says Rich, known by the nickname “The Cannon,” last fought in 2019. A quick Google search reveals he was born in Arizona.
It's unclear what the dispute over parking was specifically about.
Map of where the shooting happened:
