Ocean Springs Police Continue Investigation into July 4th Shooting

OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi (WLOX) – An Independence Day gathering quickly turned into a crime scene Thursday night on Cumberland Road in Ocean Springs.

Officers arrested 68-year-old Henry Williams Andray for allegedly shooting into an Independence Day celebration, injuring seven people. Ocean Springs Police Sergeant Parker Bourque told WLOX that Andray faces four counts of aggravated assault.

“Everyone was in the backyard mingling with the crowd,” said Sergeant Bourque. “The victims are in stable condition and the investigation is ongoing.”

According to police, neighbors were hosting the party and began setting off fireworks when Andray fired buckshot into the crowd, hitting several partygoers. Four people had to be hospitalized.

“On the arms, legs, chest and some on the face,” Bourque listed the injuries.

Ocean Springs Police Chief Ryan Lemaire said Andray refused to give a statement to police and his motive is still unclear to investigators.

“We still need to talk to many victims and witnesses to get a clearer picture of what happened and what transpired,” Bourque said.

As the investigation progresses, further charges may be brought against Andray.

He is being held at the Jackson County Adult Detention Center on $1,000,000 bail.

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