Authorities reported three fatalities and four injuries resulting from a New Year’s Eve shooting spree at a Mississippi gathering, moments before 2021 concluded.
The Gulfport police department has yet to make any arrests. The investigation is hampered by the chaotic scene – over fifty rounds discharged from multiple weapons – and the reluctance of witnesses and some victims to cooperate with law enforcement, according to Gulfport Police Chief Chris Ryle.
“I comprehend their apprehension,” Ryle stated at a press briefing. “They fear public reprisal. However, we offer a confidential hotline for their use.”
Police responded to emergency calls at 11:58 p.m. Friday. One victim remains in critical condition, while three others are anticipated to make full recoveries, according to police reports.
The precise events leading to the gunfire remain unclear to investigators; however, it appears a physical altercation rapidly escalated into violence, the chief explained.
“A lethal combination of firearms, narcotics, and alcohol,” Ryle asserted.
The number of attendees at the outdoor event remains undetermined. Officers estimate several dozen individuals were present, but the ensuing chaos hindered accurate assessment, the police chief added.
Even those wounded have declined to provide statements to detectives, he observed.
“Given the crowd size, someone must possess pertinent information,” Ryle emphasized during a press conference featured on The Sun Herald’s website. “With an assault rifle involved, someone knows the perpetrator’s identity, and their testimony is crucial.”
Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer identified the deceased as Corey Dubose, 23, of D’Iberville; Sedrick McCord, 28, of Gulfport; and Aubrey Lewis, 22, of Bay St. Louis.
