Sally McNeil is a former Marine and professional bodybuilder whose life took a dramatic turn after the 1995 Valentine’s Day shooting of her husband, Ray McNeil. Convicted of second-degree murder, she served 25 years in prison before her release in 2020. Her bodybuilding career included prestigious contests and titles, but financial struggles followed her incarceration.
Now living in California, Sally works at a warehouse and focuses on rebuilding her life. Her complex story, blending fame, infamy, and resilience, is explored in the Netflix documentary Killer Sally. Despite her challenges, Sally’s journey highlights the enduring impact of personal and legal battles.
Quick Key Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Sally McNeil |
| Nickname | “Killer Sally” |
| Date of Birth | May 30, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Profession | Former Marine, Professional Bodybuilder |
| Bodybuilding Career | Won titles such as U.S. Armed Services Physique Championship |
| Notable Incident | Valentine’s Day 1995, Sally shot her husband, Ray McNeil, claiming self-defense |
| Conviction | Second-degree murder, sentenced to 19 years to life |
| Prison Sentence | Served approximately 25 years, released in 2020 |
| Children | Two (Shantina and John McNeil) |
| Net Worth | Undisclosed, faced financial challenges post-incarceration |
| Height | 5 feet 3 inches |
| Physical Appearance | Muscular build due to bodybuilding |
| Spouse | Ray McNeil (deceased) |
| Steroid Use | Sally and Ray both used steroids, which became a focal point during their relationship and trial |
| Documentary | Killer Sally on Netflix explores her life and case |
| Current Residence | California, USA |
| Post-Prison Career | Working at a warehouse, rebuilding her life |
| Key Achievements | Successful bodybuilding career and Marine Corps service |
| Notable Media | Featured in books and documentaries, including Killer Sally |
Early Life and Education
Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Sally McNeil had a humble beginning. Her early years were marked by discipline and perseverance, traits that would later define her bodybuilding career. After high school, she joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where she discovered her passion for fitness and weightlifting. The Marine Corps provided her with the structure she needed, and she quickly excelled in physical training.
While serving, Sally McNeil earned a commendable reputation as a dedicated soldier. Her time in the military played a crucial role in shaping her mindset and introducing her to bodybuilding contests. Education, both formal and through life experiences, helped her build the foundation for her eventual career in bodybuilding.
Physical Appearance and Public Image
Known for her striking physique, Sally McNeil stood out as a bodybuilder with a muscular yet feminine appearance. Her unique look earned her both admirers and critics. At her peak, she was 5’3” tall and weighed around 160 pounds, showcasing an impressive combination of strength and symmetry.
Her physical transformation was a testament to her dedication to bodybuilding. Even during her time in prison, she maintained a fitness routine, reinforcing her identity as a determined athlete. Sally McNeil’s appearance symbolized both the highs of her bodybuilding career and the struggles she faced as a convict.
Relationship with Ray McNeil
Sally McNeil’s relationship with her husband Ray McNeil was complex. Both were competitive bodybuilders, and their shared passion for fitness initially brought them together. However, their marriage was marked by conflicts, including allegations of abuse and infidelity.
The tumultuous relationship ultimately culminated in the tragic Valentine’s Day shooting. The court proceedings revealed details of their volatile dynamics, painting a picture of a relationship fraught with emotional and physical challenges. Despite the tragedy, Sally McNeil often spoke about her hope for understanding and forgiveness.
Bodybuilding Career Highlights
Sally McNeil’s bodybuilding career began in earnest during her time in the Marines. She competed in various bodybuilding contests, showcasing her impressive physique and dedication to fitness. Her muscular frame and stage presence earned her the nickname “Killer McNeil.” She became a rising star in the bodybuilding world, competing in high-profile events and gaining recognition for her strength and determination.
Her success in fitness competitions also brought opportunities for product endorsements. These sponsorships contributed to her earnings, helping her build her initial net worth. Despite facing criticism for her unconventional appearance, Sally McNeil stood firm, proving that women could excel in what was traditionally a male-dominated field.
| Event | Year | Achievement |
| Armed Forces Bodybuilding | 1987 | 1st Place |
| NPC USA Championships | 1990 | Top 5 Finalist |
| Fitness Magazine Features | 1991 | Cover Model |
The Valentine’s Day Shooting
Sally McNeil’s life took a dark turn on February 14, 1995. On this fateful Valentine’s Day, an argument between Sally and her husband Ray McNeil escalated into a violent altercation. Sally McNeil claimed she acted in self-defense, citing years of abuse as the motive behind the fatal shooting.
The incident shocked the fitness community and the public. During her trial, the court rejected her defense, leading to her murder conviction. The legal battle drained her finances, with significant portions of her money going toward legal defense costs. Her story became one of infamy, capturing media attention and dividing public opinion on issues of domestic violence and justice.
Incarceration and Prison Income
During her 25-year sentence, Sally McNeil worked various prison jobs, earning meager wages. These roles, which included tasks like cleaning and manufacturing, helped her cover basic needs within the correctional system. However, the low wages made it challenging for her to save or plan for life after incarceration.
Prison life also gave her time to reflect and explore her life story. She participated in interviews and began considering opportunities to monetize her experiences through books, documentaries, and public speaking after her release. Her earnings during this period were limited but demonstrated her resilience and adaptability.
| Prison Job | Wages Earned Per Hour |
| Cleaning Services | $0.10 – $0.20 |
| Manufacturing Work | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Education Assistance | $0.30 – $0.75 |
Fame and Infamy
Sally McNeil’s fame initially stemmed from her success in bodybuilding contests and her striking appearance. However, the Valentine’s Day shooting thrust her into the spotlight for entirely different reasons. Her murder conviction turned her into a figure of both public curiosity and controversy.
Media coverage and subsequent documentaries explored her life, highlighting themes of domestic violence, justice, and redemption. While her fame was tinged with infamy, it also created opportunities for her to share her life story. She later capitalized on this by licensing her story for books and documentaries, showcasing her journey from success to adversity and her attempts to rebuild.
Financial Challenges and Recovery
Following her release, Sally McNeil faced significant financial hurdles. Years of incarceration left her with minimal savings and limited earning potential. However, she began exploring ways to rebuild her net worth, including public appearances, interviews, and partnerships.
Her financial recovery involved careful money management and leveraging her unique story. By sharing her experiences, she aimed to educate others on overcoming adversity and planning for unexpected challenges. Despite the difficulties, Sally McNeil’s financial journey reflects her determination to reclaim her life.
FAQ’s
Who is Sally McNeil?
Sally McNeil is a former Marine and bodybuilding champion known for her involvement in the tragic Valentine’s Day 1995 shooting of her husband, Ray McNeil. The incident gained widespread attention due to her claims of self-defense and her bodybuilding career.
Why did Sally McNeil kill Ray McNeil?
Sally McNeil stated that she killed her husband in self-defense after enduring years of domestic abuse. On the night of the incident, she claimed Ray was choking her, prompting her to act in a split-second to protect herself.
What is Sally McNeil’s current net worth?
Sally McNeil’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, but her financial challenges after incarceration, including legal fees and rebuilding her life, indicate limited wealth. Post-prison, she has focused on employment and rebuilding her finances.
What were Sally McNeil’s achievements in bodybuilding?
Sally McNeil was a celebrated bodybuilder who won competitions like the U.S. Armed Services Physique Championship. Her dedication to fitness and her muscular physique made her a prominent figure in the bodybuilding community.
Where is Sally McNeil now?
After serving her sentence for second-degree murder, Sally McNeil was released in 2020. She currently resides in California, working to rebuild her life and maintain stability.
What was the outcome of Sally McNeil’s trial?
Sally McNeil was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 19 years to life in prison. The case was controversial due to debates over domestic abuse and self-defense.
Did Sally McNeil’s children stay with her after her conviction?
After her conviction, Sally’s children were placed in foster care and later lived with their maternal grandparents. Their relationship with Sally has been complicated but has seen some reconciliation in recent years.
What role did steroids play in Sally McNeil’s story?
Steroid use was a significant element in Sally and Ray McNeil’s lives, both professionally and personally. Some attributed their volatile relationship and the tragic incident to “roid rage,” exacerbating the case’s complexity.
Are there documentaries about Sally McNeil?
Yes, Sally McNeil’s story is featured in Killer Sally, a Netflix true-crime documentary. It explores her life, her relationship with Ray, and the events surrounding the 1995 shooting.
What job does Sally McNeil have now?
After her release, Sally McNeil started working at a warehouse. She has focused on maintaining a stable lifestyle and regaining normalcy.
Conclusion
Sally McNeil is a former Marine and champion bodybuilder who gained attention for her tumultuous life and legal battles. Known as Killer Sally, she was convicted of second-degree murder for the 1995 Valentine’s Day shooting of her husband, Ray McNeil.
Claiming self-defense against years of domestic abuse, her case stirred debates about abuse and justice. After serving 25 years, she was released in 2020 and now works in California while focusing on rebuilding her life. Her story, marked by fame, infamy, and financial struggles, is explored in Netflix’s Killer Sally. Despite challenges, Sally’s resilience continues to define her narrative as she navigates life beyond incarceration.
