Business Impact of MS Highway Shootings

(Tunica, MS) They have gadgets and nick knacks that can make anyone smile, but shop owner Linda Bruce says nowadays business is no laughing matter.

“Yes, very depressing ,” said Bruce.

CB Gifts and Collectibles relies on tourists.

Bruce said 80 to 90 percent of her customers come from the Tunica casinos. 

But ever since the floods last year and gas prices creeping up, Bruce said business has a hit an uncomfortable low, “People can’t afford to travel with the gas prices the way they are.”

And now, now two shootings on Mississippi highways pose more questions about the shop’s future.

Fortunately, for now, it seems tourists are still visiting the casinos.

But down the road at Fitzergerald’s Casino, the shootings are on the mind of workers there.

One of the casino’s employees was killed on Highway 713.

Lori Ann Carswell was shot May 11 driving home from work late at night.

Her co-workers told us they are now nervous at the end of their shifts and are taking different routes home.

But, they say business at the casino seems to have remained steady.

And other local shop owners say the same.

“We haven’t seen a big difference really,” said Annie Meredith, owner of Don Don’s Sandwich Shop.  “I don’t know if it’s just people unaware because so many people here are just visiting the casinos, they may not know what’s going on.”

And while that may be good for business, shop owners say they are keeping not just sales, but their customers’ safety in mind.

“Just be careful when you travel and don’t stop for unmarked cars,” said Bruce.