AT&T Store Shooting Leaves Two Dead in Gulfport; Suspect Faces Murder Charges

GULFPORT, Miss. (BuzzReport)— Samuel Andrews faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of shooting into a crowd after authorities say he opened fire at an AT&T store in Crossroads Parkway, killing an employee and a customer.

Gulfport police identified the victims as 31-year-old Shane Basquill, an employee at the store, and 78-year-old Mary Anne Oberlies, a customer. The shooting has left the Gulfport community shaken as investigators work to establish what led to the attack.

According to an eyewitness, Andrews drove to the store, pulled up near the curb and exited his truck carrying a shotgun. The witness said Andrews walked toward the entrance as Basquill attempted to lock the door. Andrews allegedly fired at the employee before entering or approaching the store.

Police have not publicly released additional details about the sequence of events, including whether Oberlies was inside the store when she was shot or whether anyone else was targeted. Authorities also have not announced a possible motive.

Search Warrant Served at Suspect’s Home

Earlier today, officers served a search warrant at Andrews’ residence on Five Oaks Drive. Investigators were seen examining the property as part of the homicide investigation, though police have not disclosed what evidence, if any, was recovered.

Neighbors described Andrews as unusual and frequently combative. Those accounts may become part of the investigation as detectives examine his background, relationships and activities before the shooting.

Police have not indicated whether Andrews had prior contact with the victims or the AT&T store. Authorities also have not released information about whether the shotgun allegedly used in the attack has been recovered.

Investigation Continues

The charges against Andrews are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Court information, including an initial appearance and bond decision, was not immediately available.

Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the shooting or saw Andrews’ truck in the area to contact the Gulfport Police Department. Additional details are expected as detectives process evidence from the store and the Five Oaks Drive residence.

Further updates are expected tomorrow as authorities release more information about the case. This is an active ongoing investigation.