Florida teen, 17, dies after Kissimmee Airbnb party shooting
Teen shot, killed at Kissimmee house party; family seeks answers
A 17-year-old boy from Orlando was shot and killed at a house party in Kissimmee over the weekend, leaving his family grieving and searching for answers. Authorities said the shooting happened at a short-term rental property where a large group had gathered.
OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. - A Florida teen is dead after a shooting at an Airbnb over the weekend. Now, officials are looking for information to learn what happened.
No arrests are reported at this time.
What we know:
The Osceola County Sheriff's office confirmed that Qvarious Savion McCloud, 17, of Orlando died from his injuries after he was shot at a home off Shanti Drive, in Kissimmee, in the Veranda Palms Subdivision on March 14.
Qvarious Savion McCloud, 17, of Orlando
Deputies responded to the Kissimmee home around 1:25 a.m., after a reported shooting at the home, finding McCloud shot and lying near the pool, the sheriff's office said. McCloud was attending a house party with other people, deputies said.
An Airbnb released a statement to FOX 35 saying that disruptive parties in Airbnbs are strictly prohibited – citing the company's policy.
"Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the victim and all of those affected by this needless gun violence," a spokesperson said. "Disruptive parties are strictly prohibited on Airbnb, and we’ve removed the booking guest from our platform. We stand ready to support the Osceola County Sheriff's Office in their investigation."
Airbnb said it has suspended a property listing as authorities continue to investigate a recent incident.
No suspect information
What we don't know:
Law enforcement are looking for any information about what happened early that morning – including any recorded video or witnesses at the party.
Detectives believe that most party attendees were Orange County residents.
What's next:
A Candlelight vigil is being held on Saturday, March 21 at 4 p.m.
What you can do:
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crimeline at 800-423-8477.
This story will be updated when more information is made available.
Disruptive parties at Airbnb properties remain rare, company says
Dig deeper:
Airbnb told FOX 35 News that disruptive parties remain rare on its platform, noting that in 2024, about 0.035% of global reservations resulted in an allegation of a party.
Ahead of the spring break travel season, Airbnb said it has reminded travelers in Florida and across the United States of its global ban on disruptive parties and the potential consequences for violations.
The company said it maintains year-round measures aimed at reducing the risk of such gatherings and supporting local communities. These include reservation screening designed to block bookings deemed higher risk for disruptive parties, as well as enhanced safeguards during periods associated with increased party activity, such as New Year’s Eve and Halloween.
Airbnb also pointed to its Neighborhood Support Line, which allows nearby residents to report urgent concerns, including suspected parties at listed properties. A separate 24-hour safety line is available for hosts and guests to contact the company during active stays.
In addition, Airbnb said it provides support to law enforcement through a dedicated portal and response team.
The company said reports of disruptive parties have declined by more than 50% globally since 2020, when it first implemented its party ban policy.
The Source: Information in this story was gathered from the Osceola County Sheriff's office.