Christopher Jerome Smith, 30, was found fatally shot in the chest on the back porch of an apartment at the Gulf Mist complex in Gulfport in the early hours of July 1, 2016. Police were called for shots fired about 3:30 a.m.; Smith’s body was located on the porch and he died from a gunshot wound to the upper torso.

Investigators tied the shooting to an argument between Smith and 25-year-old Michael Phillip Peden of Gulfport. Peden allegedly drew a handgun and fired; he fled the scene but remained nearby and later flagged down officers, first presenting himself as an eyewitness. His account fell apart during the inquiry. The weapon was described as a single-action revolver, and Peden reportedly told police where it could be found. Peden was arrested, charged with first-degree murder, and held on $1 million bond. Detectives noted Smith had been issued a no-trespass notice for the complex and had been texting his ex-girlfriend that night; she had contacted Peden out of fear.

Did anyone in Gulfport recognize the dispute between Smith and Peden or have information about the events that night?