MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A former security guard who shot and killed his co-worker at a Memphis entertainment center, then told his manager he “had to do it,” will spend the next 30 years in prison.
Richard Lewis, 46, was sentenced after pleading guilty on Monday to second-degree murder in the death of 65-year-old James Earl Redmon, according to Shelby County court records reviewed by Law&Crime.
A Threat Before the Shooting
On July 22, 2024, Lewis and Redmon were both working security at Main Event Memphis on Appling Farms Parkway. The family entertainment center is known for bowling, arcade games, laser tag and billiards.
The two men had known each other for several years. But according to court documents obtained by WMC Action News 5, Lewis became upset when Redmon showed up for work that day.
A new employee told investigators that Lewis said, “If he walks up on me, I’m going to blow his a— off.”
An Argument Over Metal Detectors
Later that day, the two men reportedly argued over the use of metal detectors for visitors coming into the building. It is not clear what side each man took.
About 10 minutes after the argument, the witness said Lewis warned Redmon not to come near him. Lewis then shot Redmon twice in the head, authorities said.
Afterward, Lewis told his manager he “had to do it.”
Arrest at the Scene
Memphis police arrived at the entertainment center around 7 p.m. and found Redmon dead, according to the police affidavit. Officers arrested Lewis at the scene.
“He Should Have Made It Home”
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy said the guilty plea holds Lewis accountable for taking Redmon’s life. He noted that Redmon simply went to work that evening and should have made it home to his family.