Gulfport police today arrested 28-year-old Elisha Christopher Landry and charged him with second-degree murder in the April 17 death of 34-year-old Shaun Allen Hennigh. Officers say they originally found Hennigh during a call to the 5100 block of Tangerine Avenue South, where the death was later ruled a homicide. Landry was taken into custody at his residence without incident and transported to the county jail for processing, according to investigators.
From ‘Suspicious’ Call To Homicide Case
Gulfport detectives responded to a death investigation on April 17 in the 5100 block of Tangerine Avenue South and concluded the victim had sustained a fatal gunshot wound, according to Tampa Bay 28. The outlet reports investigators quickly labeled the circumstances “suspicious” and worked with the State Attorney’s Office and the medical examiner before seeking a warrant. Hennigh was later identified as the victim.
Affidavit Paints Troubling Scene
A complaint affidavit filed in Pinellas County court, summarized by IONTB, says officers were initially told the shooting was an accidental discharge during “play-fighting.” Detectives were not convinced. The affidavit notes an approximately 4.5-hour gap between when witnesses reported hearing a gunshot and when a 911 call was finally placed, and says investigators observed apparent blood smears and other indications the scene may have been altered. The Pinellas County medical examiner later ruled the death a homicide, and detectives say the characteristics of the wound were inconsistent with a self-inflicted shot.
Marshals Join Hunt For Suspect
This morning, the United States Marshals Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force assisted Gulfport detectives in taking Landry into custody at his home, and officers say the arrest went off without incident. After the arrest, Landry was transported to the Pinellas County Jail for processing, FOX 13 reports. In a brief statement, Gulfport police thanked the federal partners who helped locate and apprehend the suspect.
Second-Degree Murder Charge And What It Means
Detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Landry with second-degree murder under Florida law, according to Tampa Bay 28. Florida Statute 782.04 defines murder and notes a conviction for second-degree murder carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison, per the Florida Senate code. Prosecutors with the State Attorney’s Office will review the investigation and make charging and court-date determinations as the case moves forward.
Key Pieces Still Missing
Authorities have not released a motive, and it remains unclear whether investigators recovered the firearm used in the killing, FOX 13 reports. Neighbors and other residents who spoke with detectives were part of the wider inquiry, and police say they will continue to pursue leads. Anyone with information is urged to contact Gulfport detectives as the case proceeds.
