Three tourists were shot dead outside a Florida rental home in a random attack

Three tourists were shot dead outside a Florida rental home in a random attack

A tragic shooting in Florida has left three men dead, including two brothers, and a 29-year-old man is now facing murder charges. The incident happened on January 17 in a quiet subdivision not far from Walt Disney World, shaking a community that had already seen troubling behavior from the suspect.

What Happened in the Triple Shooting

Deputies responded to a report of gunfire and found three men shot dead in front of a home. The victims were identified as:

  • Robert Luis Kraft, 70
  • Douglas Joseph Kraft, 68 (Robert’s brother)
  • James Puchan, 69

According to CBS News, the three men were tourists from Ohio and Michigan who had been staying at a nearby rental home. They were reportedly stranded at the house due to car trouble. Douglas Kraft’s twin brother had been traveling with them but had left a day earlier and was not present during the shooting.

Who Is the Suspect?

The suspect, Ahmad Jihad Bojeh, 29, was arrested shortly after the incident. He lived next door to the rental property where the victims were staying. Deputies took him into custody at his home and recovered two firearms, though it has not yet been confirmed if either weapon was used in the killings.

Bojeh has now been formally charged with three counts of murder. At his first court appearance on January 18, the judge found probable cause to hold him without bond, meaning he will stay in jail while the case moves forward.

Bojeh’s Criminal History

Bojeh is no stranger to law enforcement. The local sheriff, Christopher Blackmon, said Bojeh had long been considered a “threat to the neighborhood”, with multiple calls made about him in the past.

His record includes a previous shooting incident at a gas station, for which he was acquitted by reason of insanity. He has also faced drug-related charges and non-violent offenses in the past, according to WESH.

Victims Were on Vacation

This violent act has devastated the families of the victims, who were simply enjoying a vacation. The men had been renting a home in a family-friendly area when their trip was cut short by the shooting.

There is still no official word on a motive, and investigators have not confirmed whether the victims and suspect had any prior conflict. The sheriff’s office continues to gather evidence, including examining the two recovered guns and speaking with witnesses.

Community in Shock

The community is reeling from the event, especially as it happened so close to one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. Locals have voiced concern over the suspect’s past behavior and the apparent warning signs that went unnoticed or unaddressed.

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