The quiet of a Gulfport home was shattered on December 11 when a late-night confrontation turned deadly, ending with the death of 29-year-old Dangelo Rayjvon Murphy. What authorities now describe as an attempted home invasion unfolded quickly, leaving one woman injured, another shaken, and a community searching for answers about how a private residence became the scene of such intense violence.
According to investigators, Murphy forced his way into the home while armed with a hammer and a knife. Inside were two women, caught off guard by the sudden intrusion. Police say the situation escalated almost immediately, with Murphy attacking one of the women and inflicting knife wounds during the struggle. The violence, officers noted, was sudden and terrifying, unfolding in a place meant to offer safety.
As the attack continued, the second woman acted in defense. Authorities say she managed to obtain a firearm and fired at Murphy, stopping the assault and ending what police believe was an imminent threat to both women. Emergency calls followed within moments, bringing officers and medical responders rushing to the scene.
Murphy was pronounced dead following the shooting. The county coroner later confirmed his identity and age, adding another layer of complexity to an already troubling case. Investigators revealed that Murphy had recently been released on bond and was awaiting further court proceedings connected to an earlier incident involving one of the women inside the home. That prior case, police said, included a kidnapping allegation and is believed to be a key factor in what led to the confrontation.
The woman who was stabbed was treated for her injuries, which authorities described as serious but not life-threatening. She was transported for medical care and is expected to recover. The second woman, who fired the weapon, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with officers as they began piecing together what happened.
Detectives are now carefully reconstructing the timeline, reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the history between those involved. While early findings point toward self-defense, police stressed that no final determination will be made until every detail has been thoroughly reviewed. As with all fatal shootings, the case will undergo a full legal evaluation.
The incident has stirred unease across the community, particularly because it unfolded inside a home—an environment most people associate with security and peace. Police urged residents to avoid speculation, emphasizing that cases involving personal histories and domestic elements are often layered and complex. Sensitivity, they said, is essential as the investigation continues.
For now, no charges have been filed against the woman who fired the gun, though authorities made clear that the investigation remains active. Officials say additional information will be released once the review is complete, and they continue to encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward. As Gulfport waits for clarity, the case stands as a sobering reminder of how unresolved conflicts can erupt with devastating consequences.
