D’IBERVILLE, MS – An attempted robbery in D’Iberville turned deadly Monday evening after the intended victim shot one of the suspects during what police say was a self-defense incident.
According to the D’Iberville Police Department, officers were called to the 11000 block of Cinema Drive at approximately 7:30 p.m. following reports of a shooting.
Investigators say the incident began as an arranged meeting between two individuals for the purchase of electronic items. During the exchange, a third person reportedly appeared and attempted to rob the buyer. Police believe the buyer, faced with an imminent threat, produced a firearm and fired in self-defense.
The suspect who was shot was identified as 25-year-old Tristain Young of Hattiesburg. Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer said Young was transported to a local hospital, where life-saving efforts were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at approximately 9 p.m.
While processing the scene, officers gathered information about a vehicle that fled the area shortly after the shooting. A be-on-the-lookout alert was issued to surrounding agencies, and the vehicle was later located by the Biloxi Police Department.
Police identified the driver as 26-year-old Ahmad Rasheed Hawthorne of Gulfport. Hawthorne was arrested and charged with accessory before the fact to armed robbery.
He was booked into the Harrison County Adult Detention Center and held on a $500,000 bond.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing. Information in this report is based on statements from D’Iberville Police and reporting by WLOX.
Incidents like this highlight the risks that can accompany private, in-person sales arranged through online marketplaces or personal contacts. Meeting strangers to exchange high-value items can create opportunities for criminals to exploit the situation, sometimes escalating into violent confrontations. Choosing well-lit public locations, bringing another person when possible, and remaining alert to changes in the situation can reduce risk. When a transaction turns into an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm, the lawful ability to defend oneself may be the only means of survival.
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