OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — A weekend shooting that claimed the lives of three tourists has left their families devastated and seeking answers. The victims, all Midwest residents who had traveled to Central Florida for a car show, were reportedly gunned down outside their rental home in Kissimmee.
The deceased have been identified as Douglas Kraft from Columbus, Ohio, Robert Kraft from Holland, Michigan, and James Puchan from Galena, Ohio. The trio was waiting for help after their rental car broke down when they became victims of a violent act, allegedly perpetrated by a man known to local law enforcement.
In a joint statement, the families expressed their grief, saying, “These three wonderful men did not deserve this. Our families are left with an unexpected, unimaginable loss that cannot be put into words. We ask for privacy, prayers, and respect as we mourn and begin to process this tragedy.”
Witnesses reported hearing numerous gunshots, with some claiming to have heard as many as 14 rounds fired. A neighbor described the harrowing scene, saying he was doing yard work when he witnessed the shooting unfold. Local authorities swiftly apprehended Ahmad Boger, a 29-year-old with a troubled history, and charged him with three counts of murder.
Boger had faced serious charges in the past, including a 2021 incident where he fired into vehicles at a gas station, injuring a bystander. Despite this violent history, he was acquitted by reason of insanity, raising questions about how he was allowed to remain at large. Residents have voiced concerns about his presence in the community, with one witness expressing disbelief that someone with Boger’s background could again engage in such a deadly act.
As investigators continue to gather evidence and search for motive, the community remains shaken. Sheriff Chris Blackman stated that Boger poses a significant threat, having been the subject of multiple police calls prior to this incident.
The families of the victims have emphasized there was no prior interaction between the men and Boger, describing the shooting as a “random, tragic act.” As they cope with their unimaginable loss, the families reiterated their need for privacy while they navigate this difficult time.
Local officials and community members are rallying together to support the families affected by this tragedy, underscoring the impact of gun violence on innocent lives.