David Wright, 51, of Minneapolis, now faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the September killing of his ex-girlfriend, 34-year-old Mariah Samuels. Wright was initially charged with second-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm, but authorities upgraded the charges Monday to include one count of first-degree premeditated murder and one count of first-degree murder. A conviction could result in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Samuels was shot outside her home in the Willard-Hay neighborhood, just feet from her front door. She had a restraining order against Wright and reportedly posted on Facebook less than an hour before the attack about threats he had made to her family and damage he caused to her car. Family members described Wright as controlling and jealous, likely motivated by concerns over her past relationships.
The amended criminal complaint cites multiple text messages in which Samuels reported instances of abuse, including Wright allegedly slamming a door on her. Family members have criticized authorities, stating her repeated calls for help went largely unheeded and are demanding full transparency from the Minneapolis Police Department regarding enforcement of her protection order.
In response, Minneapolis Public Safety Chief Brian O’Hara has ordered a comprehensive review of the case and directed officers to complete retraining on domestic violence response by the end of the year. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty emphasized that Wright will be held accountable and that systemic failures leading to Samuels’ death must be addressed.
Samuels’ family continues to call for justice, saying her cries for help were ignored and that her life should have been protected.
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