A shooting at an Airbnb in Gulfport, Mississippi, resulted in two injuries and four arrests, raising concerns about safety in vacation rentals.
At a Glance
- Four suspects from South Carolina were arrested following a shooting at a Gulfport Airbnb
- Two victims suffered gunshot wounds, one to the leg and another to the chest
- Police found firearms, including stolen weapons, and various illegal drugs at the scene
- The main suspect, Tedric Antonio Owens, faces multiple charges including aggravated assault
- The incident highlights growing safety concerns in short-term rental properties
Violent Incident Disrupts Quiet Gulfport Morning
In the early hours of Saturday morning, the tranquility of Gulfport, Mississippi, was shattered by gunfire at an Airbnb property. The incident, which left two individuals injured and resulted in the arrest of four suspects, has sparked a debate about safety measures in vacation rentals.
Gulfport Police Department responded promptly to reports of a shooting at the Airbnb location. Upon arrival, they discovered a chaotic scene with one victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. A second victim, who had sustained a more severe chest injury, was rushed to a local hospital and later airlifted to a specialized facility in stable condition.
Suspects Apprehended and Charges Filed
The primary suspect, identified as 35-year-old Tedric Antonio Owens, allegedly fired multiple shots during an altercation, striking both victims. In a dramatic turn of events, Owens was found hiding under a bed with a firearm and resisted arrest, necessitating the deployment of a K9 unit for apprehension.
Warren County Sheriff Martin Pace says, ‘Multiple injuries and multiple fatalities … it just compounds the tragedy.'”
Owens now faces a litany of charges, including aggravated assault, assault on a law enforcement officer, and drug trafficking. Three other individuals – Christopher Emanuel Reese (34), Demetrius Dontay Goodman (36), and Laquavius Deshaun Wortherly (36) – were also arrested and charged with drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
Weapons and Drugs Seized in Search
A subsequent search of the Airbnb property and a vehicle yielded alarming results. Law enforcement officials discovered three firearms, two of which were reported stolen. Additionally, they seized substantial quantities of illegal substances: 174 grams of marijuana, 1,011 dosage units of MDMA, and 84 grams of cocaine.
All four suspects, who were visiting from South Carolina, have been transported to the Harrison County Adult jail. The Gulfport Police Department is urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Safety Concerns in Short-Term Rentals
This violent episode has reignited discussions about safety protocols in short-term rental properties like Airbnb. While such rentals have become increasingly popular for their affordability and home-like atmosphere, incidents like this raise questions about the potential risks involved.
Airbnb and similar platforms have implemented various safety measures, including background checks on hosts and guests, as well as neighborhood hotlines for reporting disturbances. However, this incident underscores the challenges in ensuring complete safety in privately-owned rental properties.
Community Response and Moving Forward
The Gulfport community, known for its peaceful coastal charm, has been shaken by this event. Local authorities are working to reassure residents and visitors alike that such incidents are rare and that steps are being taken to prevent future occurrences.
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and thorough safety measures in all types of accommodations. It also highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating drug-related crimes and violence in tourist areas.
The Gulfport Police Department continues to seek public assistance in gathering more information about the shooting. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to contact the department or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers to aid in the investigation and help ensure the safety of both residents and visitors in the area.
