A West Palm Beach man is facing charges after allegedly shooting airsoft pellets into his neighbor's apartment. According to a CBS12 report, the suspect identified as Hunter Hopwood, 40, is accused of firing the pellets on January 9. The neighbor, engaged in video games at the time, reported hearing shots and what sounded like reloading before additional gunshots pierced the wall of his unit.
The West Palm Beach Police Department (WPBPD) responded to the scene where they found multiple holes "riddled" in a wall and hallway, prompting an evacuation of the complex, according to CBS12. Although Hopwood did not respond when officers tried to contact him initially, he was later apprehended, and, police conducted a search of his apartment and vehicle. In the apartment, officers found evidence inconsistent with Hopwood's claim of 'hanging pictures,' including a gun case, air gun pellets, an air gun manual, and accessories. The search of his vehicle revealed a .25 caliber pellet gun on the front right passenger floor.
This incident was not Hopwood's first involving a pellet gun. In May 2023, he was caught on surveillance firing a .50 caliber airsoft rifle into a dwelling, a charge that was eventually reduced to a misdemeanor. Despite a risk protection order issued as a result of that charge, which expired in May 2024, Hopwood now faces charges of shooting into an occupied dwelling with intent to harm and felony criminal mischief.
Further information from a Palm Beach Mugshots Facebook post confirms Hopwood's arrest by the WPBPD, noting the specific charges of '790.19 (FS)WEAPON OFFENSE - MISSILE INTO DWELLING VEH BUILDING OR AIRCRAFT' and '806.13 1B3 (FT)DAMAGE PROP-CRIM MISCH - 1000 DOLS OR MORE.' Hopwood was held without bond, and as with all accused individuals, he is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The community has been made aware of the incident to increase safety and awareness. The Palm Beach Mugshots post highlighted the importance of maintaining a context of information without promoting, encouraging, or taking part in illegal or immoral activities. The disclaimer on their post emphasizes a commitment to informing the public of local issues and reassures that content shared adheres to community standards without an intent to bully or harass anyone involved.
