Investigation Into Shooting Death of Scarlet Pearl Casino Patron Underway

Summary

• The victim was found in the parking lot of the casino inside his vehicle.
• Maintenance workers heard the gunshot and called police.
• The victim was visiting the area from California.

An investigation has begun in Mississippi after a patron of the Scarlet Pearl Casino was found shot in the venue parking lot. Police were called the scene shortly after the incident and found the victim in the driver’s seat of his vehicle. A search is now underway to locate the shooter responsible for killing 36-year-old Nicholaus Craig.

Details of the Incident

In the early morning hours on Wednesday, maintenance employees of the casino heard a gunshot. Casino security was alerted and once they determined an individual had been shot, police were called to the scene. D’Iberville police arrived on the scene and found the victim, Nicholaus Craig, laid over the driver’s seat of his vehicle. He was pronounced dead on the scene by emergency personnel.

Police reported that it did not appear as though Craig had been robbed or attacked. He was just sitting in his vehicle. Early reports indicate that he was killed by a single gunshot wound. Craig had stopped at the casino to play a few games for his 36th birthday.

The victim is from the Mobile area and had plans to visit the city after his stop at the casino and continue to celebrate his birthday.

Police Review Casino Security Footage

In an attempt to figure out who may have shot Craig, police are looking at every possible angle and tip, including casino security footage. The cameras of the casino were able to capture the image of dark vehicle and police believe this may be the suspect.

Police are hoping that someone will recognize the vehicle and come forward. The footage shows a Nissan Altima leaving the scene, one that is missing a rear bumper. The car also has a switched license plate, which makes it very suspicious.

So far, the investigation has given officers little information. They only know that Craig went to his car and was sitting there when the incident occurred. LuAnn Pappas, the CEO of Scarlet Pearl, commented on the incident after it happened, stated that the casino is unable to make an official statement due to the ongoing investigation. However, the casino is thinking of the family right now during this painful time.

This is the third homicide for D’Iberville this year. It is surprising to find it took place outside the casino, especially considering the property has security personnel in place including surveillance cameras. Hopefully, police will be able to find the person responsible so they can be held accountable.