Share and Follow
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Tragedy struck a family as they grieve the loss of a 17-year-old who was fatally shot at a bustling house party hosted in a short-term rental in Osceola County, according to local authorities. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office reported that over 100 attendees gathered at an Airbnb property located on Shanti Drive in Kissimmee on Saturday night.
Law enforcement officers responded to the scene shortly after 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, following alerts about gunshots.
Detectives revealed that the teenager, identified as Qvarious McCloud, had traveled from Orange County to join the festivities. He was subsequently rushed to a nearby medical facility, where he succumbed to his injuries.
“Everybody loved Qvarious. He didn’t deserve this at all,” expressed his grandmother, Felicia McCloud. “He was a wonderful young man who kept to himself. He was anticipating his birthday and graduation. He often spoke about enlisting in the Marines.”
Relatives hurried to the hospital, enduring an anxious wait for any news regarding his state.
“You’re numb. You’re all over the place, asking why someone would do such a thing,” she said.
Authorities said a large crowd quickly fled the area when deputies arrived. As of Monday, no arrests had been made, and investigators have not released details about a suspect.
The shooting happened inside a gated neighborhood, raising questions from residents about how such a large gathering was allowed.
“These major parties and house takeovers we’re hearing about are due to a lack of access and control,” one neighbor said.
In a statement, Airbnb said it has removed the booking guest from its platform and suspended the property from listings as the investigation continues. “Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the victim and all of those affected by this needless gun violence,” the company said.
McCloud’s family is urging anyone with information to come forward.
“If you know what happened, speak,” his grandmother said. “We want peace. We want justice.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimeline. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
Copyright 2026 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.