A 36-year-old Accokeek man is in custody after turning himself in to authorities following a fatal shooting at the MGM National Harbor Hotel and Casino in Prince George’s County on Thursday night.
Tyrell Hairston has been identified as the suspect in the death of 33-year-old Christopher Austin Jr. of Alexandria, Virginia. Austin died at the scene after suffering multiple gunshot wounds while in his slingshot autocycle near the parking garage exit.
Prince George’s County police officers responded to reports of a crash around 11:10 p.m. on June 25 at Monument Avenue and MGM National Avenue. Upon arrival, they found Austin inside his vehicle with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates that both men were in the exit line at the parking garage. An argument reportedly began between them, after which Hairston exited his vehicle, approached Austin’s slingshot autocycle and shot him. Austin then drove away and crashed nearby.
Shortly after the shooting, Hairston contacted 911 and surrendered to police. He is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections. There is no indication that the two men knew each other prior to the incident at the garage exit.
The MGM National Harbor, a major resort and casino complex in National Harbor, draws visitors from across the Washington region, including many from Southern Maryland counties. The area is known for its entertainment venues, shopping and dining, but incidents like this one highlight ongoing concerns about safety in high-traffic tourist spots.
Prince George’s County police are continuing the investigation and asking for anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Solvers online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, the P3 Tips app or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). The case number is 26-0033867.
The shooting occurred in a busy area near the casino’s parking facilities, where many visitors exit after evening events. The use of a slingshot autocycle, a three-wheeled vehicle that combines motorcycle and car features, is relatively uncommon but popular among some enthusiasts for its open-air experience.
Hairston’s decision to turn himself in shortly after the incident may factor into the ongoing legal proceedings. He faces homicide-related charges, and the case will move through the Prince George’s County court system.
Southern Maryland residents frequently visit MGM National Harbor for dining, gaming and entertainment. The proximity of the complex to Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties makes safety at the venue a shared regional concern. Local law enforcement agencies often coordinate with Prince George’s County on incidents involving cross-jurisdictional travel.
This incident is the latest in a series of high-profile events at or near the casino since its opening. While the majority of visits are uneventful, shootings and other crimes can quickly impact public perception and tourism in the National Harbor area.
The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit is leading the investigation, with support from other units as needed. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the garage and surrounding area, interviewing witnesses and examining evidence from the scene.
Austin’s family has not publicly commented on the case at this time. The loss of a 33-year-old man in a sudden act of violence leaves a lasting impact on loved ones and the broader community.
The MGM National Harbor continues to operate normally, with enhanced security measures in place as the investigation proceeds. Officials have not released additional details about the argument that preceded the shooting.
Anyone who was in the parking garage exit line around 11:10 p.m. on June 25 or who may have information about the events leading up to the shooting is urged to contact police.
