GULFPORT — Detectives with the Gulfport Police Department have arrested 28-year-old Elisha Christopher Landry in connection with an April homicide investigation after an extensive month-long investigation.
According to police, officers responded on April 17, 2026, to the 5100 block of Tangerine Avenue South regarding a death investigation. Based on preliminary findings at the scene, detectives were requested to respond.
During the investigation, detectives determined that 34-year-old Shaun Allen Hennigh sustained a fatal gunshot wound. Investigators said evidence collected at the scene, along with witness and resident statements, revealed suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to a complaint affidavit filed in Pinellas County court, officers initially responded to what was described as a possible suicide investigation after Landry reportedly told dispatchers he and Hennigh had been “play-fighting” in the garage when the gun discharged.
Investigators later determined there was approximately a 4.5-hour delay between the reported gunshot and the 911 call placed at 5:04 a.m. on April 17. Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot around 12:32 a.m., according to the affidavit.
The affidavit states that responding officers observed signs that the scene may have been altered, including apparent blood smears and evidence consistent with a body being dragged into the garage. Investigators also noted the garage door was closed when officers arrived.
According to detectives, Landry initially told officers Hennigh shot himself or that the firearm discharged during “play-fighting,” but investigators said Landry provided multiple inconsistent statements throughout the investigation.
The Pinellas County Medical Examiner ultimately ruled Hennigh’s death a homicide. The complaint affidavit states the gunshot wound traveled from back to front, right to left, and upward, and investigators noted the wound characteristics were inconsistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Detectives also stated the investigation revealed prior disputes between Landry and Hennigh involving unpaid bills and arguments over smoking or vaping inside the residence.
On the morning of May 18, 2026, the United States Marshals Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force assisted Gulfport Police detectives in the arrest of 28-year-old Elisha Christopher Landry.
Authorities said Landry was taken into custody without incident at his residence and transported to the Pinellas County Jail for processing.
Detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Landry with second-degree murder under Florida Statute 782.04.
Police thanked members of the Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force for assisting in the apprehension of the suspect.