Suspect in Southland Casino shooting still at large
Victim identified as witness points to possible motive
By DON WILBURN
donaldfwilburn@gmail.com
Law enforcement has released new details about a deadly shooting that occurred in the parking lot of Southland Casino Hotel on the morning of Friday, November 8. The West Memphis Police Department (WMPD) con_rmed that Orlando Garza was fatally shot during the altercation. Travis Boyd has been identi_ed as the suspect in the case, and authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest.
Witnesses to the incident have provided insights into what may have sparked the violence. Krystal Dorsey, who was nearby during the altercation, stated that the dispute appeared to stem from a conict involving a woman. Investigators are working to con_rm the circumstances surrounding the shooting as they continue their search for Boyd.
West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon has said that neither the victim nor the suspect are from the Mid-South area, however other sources say both men might be from Memphis.
The deadly confrontation occurred in the casino’s parking lot, not inside the facility itself. Glen White, Southland Casino Hotel’s director of communications, underscored the casino’s commitment to guest safety, pointing to its robust security measures. These include advanced weapons detection systems at all entrances,
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which, according to White, ensure no _rearms enter the premises.
“Our hearts go out to those impacted by this tragic incident,” White said. “We are thankful that our safety protocols not only protected our guests and team members but also assisted law enforcement by providing critical evidence for the investigation.”
White con_rmed that security personnel immediately contacted local police after the shooting. Surveillance footage and other relevant information have been turned over to authorities to support the ongoing investigation.
The WMPD has described the shooting as an isolated incident and stressed that there is no evidence suggesting Boyd ever brought a _rearm inside the casino. Boyd is expected to face charges of homicide once apprehended. Authorities urge anyone with information about Boyd’s whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted to the West Memphis Police Department or anonymously through Crittenden County Crime Stoppers at (870) 7324444.
