Cinco de Mayo Celebration Turns Deadly: 34-Year-Old Christopher Skinner Fatally Shot Outside Gulfport Restaurant
GULFPORT, Miss. — A festive night turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Sunday, May 5, when a man was fatally shot during an altercation in the parking lot of Azteca’s Restaurant & Cantina, located along the busy Highway 49 corridor in Gulfport. The incident occurred around 9:36 p.m., as many gathered to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
According to the Gulfport Police Department, a verbal altercation escalated into gunfire, resulting in the death of 34-year-old Christopher Skinner, a resident of Gulfport. Authorities say Skinner sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where they found Skinner critically wounded. Officers administered life-saving aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, but despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer confirmed Skinner’s identity on Monday morning.
Police have not yet named a suspect or announced any arrests. It remains unclear what exactly sparked the argument that led to the fatal shooting, and whether the shooter was known to the victim.
As part of their ongoing investigation, detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing witnesses who were present at the time of the shooting. The Gulfport Police Department has emphasized the importance of community cooperation and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We are asking anyone who saw or heard anything unusual that night to reach out,” said a police spokesperson. “Even the smallest detail may help us bring justice to the victim’s family.”
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Gulfport Police Department at (228) 868-5959, or submit anonymous tips to Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.
The tragic death of Christopher Skinner has left a community in mourning. Friends and family describe him as a friendly, hardworking man with a big heart. A memorial is expected to be organized in the coming days to honor his memory.
As the investigation continues, Azteca’s Restaurant has expressed condolences to the family and pledged cooperation with authorities. The restaurant remained closed on Monday out of respect for the victim and to allow police to complete their work at the scene.
This incident adds to growing concerns about public safety during large gatherings and celebratory events. Gulfport authorities have promised a full investigation and reinforced their commitment to keeping the city safe.