Shooting Near Gulfport Restaurant Leaves One Dead on Cinco de Mayo

GULFPORT, Miss. — One person was shot and killed near Azteca’s Restaurant & Cantina on Highway 49 on May 5, coinciding with celebrations of Cinco de Mayo. The victim was identified as 34-year-old Christopher Skinner, a resident of Gulfport, according to Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer.

Switzer reported that Skinner died from multiple gunshot wounds sustained during the incident, which unfolded around 9:36 p.m. as a large number of patrons gathered both inside and outside the restaurant.

Witnesses stated that a fight broke out in the parking lot, escalating quickly to gunfire. Gulfport Police officers arrived shortly thereafter and provided aid to Skinner before he was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

As of now, law enforcement officials have not indicated if any suspects are in custody. The investigation remains open as police seek out potential witnesses to gather more information regarding the shooting.

Authorities are urging anyone with details about the incident to contact the Gulfport Police Department at 228-868-5959 or Mississippi Crime Stoppers at 877-787-5898.