A tragic shooting on May 5, 2025, during the Cinco de Mayo festivities in Gulfport, Mississippi, has left the local community in shock. Christopher Skinner, a 34-year-old Gulfport resident, was fatally wounded in the parking lot of Azteca’s Restaurant & Cantina, located along Highway 49. The incident has since prompted an ongoing investigation by the Gulfport Police Department, as they seek to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

The Shooting Incident

At approximately 9:36 p.m. on Sunday evening, a verbal altercation between individuals outside Azteca’s Restaurant escalated into gunfire. According to the Gulfport Police Department, the argument, which began as a dispute, quickly turned violent when one or more individuals drew firearms. Christopher Skinner, a well-known local figure, was struck multiple times by gunfire during the exchange.

Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer confirmed that Skinner suffered multiple gunshot wounds and that he was immediately attended to by law enforcement officers at the scene. Responding officers provided life-saving medical assistance before quickly transporting Skinner to a nearby hospital. Despite these efforts, Skinner tragically succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

This fatal shooting has stunned the Gulfport community, particularly those who knew Skinner. Authorities are working diligently to piece together what happened that evening, but as of now, no suspects have been identified or taken into custody.

The Community’s Shock and Response

The shooting occurred on a night when many in the community were enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Cinco de Mayo, a cultural celebration commonly marked with festivities, food, and music. Azteca’s Restaurant, a popular venue in Gulfport, was hosting a lively crowd that evening, and the violence that erupted in its parking lot has cast a dark shadow over the event. For many who were present, the shooting was an unthinkable disruption to a celebration meant for joy and community.

Witnesses at the scene have been urged to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. The Gulfport Police Department is working diligently to collect evidence and gather leads that may help identify the shooter or shooters involved in this tragic incident. Local businesses and residents in the area have also been asked to review any available surveillance footage that might provide further details about the events leading up to the shooting.

Investigation and Law Enforcement Efforts

The Gulfport Police Department is actively pursuing all avenues of investigation. Authorities have not yet released any information regarding potential suspects, but they are continuing to gather statements from witnesses and review any evidence from the scene, including surveillance video from the restaurant’s parking lot. Investigators are also looking into any potential motives for the altercation, though at this time, the reason for the dispute remains unclear.

In a statement, the Gulfport Police Department urged the public to remain patient as the investigation continues. “We are committed to finding justice for Christopher Skinner and ensuring that those responsible for his death are held accountable,” said Gulfport Police Chief, who also stressed the importance of community cooperation in solving the crime.

The department is encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to the Gulfport Police Department at (228) 868-5959, or anonymously through Mississippi Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.

The Search for Answers: The Community’s Role

As of now, there has been no indication of whether the shooting was targeted or the result of a random dispute that spiraled out of control. Law enforcement agencies are leaving no stone unturned in their search for answers.

The Gulfport community is in mourning after the loss of Christopher Skinner, a man whose life was tragically cut short. His friends, family, and colleagues are left grieving a man they remember as a friend, family member, and valuable part of the Gulfport community. Local residents have expressed their heartbreak over the violence that occurred and are calling for greater awareness around the impact of gun violence in their neighborhoods.

Despite the ongoing investigation, many in the community have expressed concern about safety and the potential for more incidents of violence. In the wake of the shooting, there are calls for increased security at public events, such as Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and a heightened focus on reducing gun violence in the area.

A Continued Search for Justice

The Gulfport Police Department is asking for the public’s continued cooperation as they work to solve this crime. Skinner’s tragic death has raised questions about safety and the need for more proactive measures to prevent such incidents from happening again. While the investigation continues, many are hopeful that justice will soon be served.

As this case unfolds, the Gulfport community remains in mourning, remembering a life taken far too soon. The tragic shooting serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence and the deep impact it can have on families and communities. As more details emerge, the focus remains on finding answers, ensuring accountability, and providing justice for Christopher Skinner and his loved ones.