Gunman killed by police while allegedly targeting YouTube stars
YouTubers Megan Turney and Gavin Free hid in a closet as an armed man roamed their house, according to police and court documents.
YouTube celebrities Gavin Free and Megan Turney live in Austin, Texas.
An armed man allegedly drove 11 hours to break into the home of two YouTube stars, who hid in a closet until police arrived and shot him dead.
Based on police and court records, the Albuquerque Journal reported that local resident Christopher Giles traveled to Austin, Texas, on January 26 and broke into the home of Megan Turney, a gamer and cosplayer with an eponymous YouTube channel, and Gavin Free of YouTube channel The Slow Mo Guys.
When they heard glass breaking, the couple hid and called 911. Police said that two officers confronted Giles as he tried to drive away. Police said they heard a gunshot from the car and returned fire.
According to police, notes on Giles' phone included threats, particularly toward Free.
Turney and Free tweeted thanks to Austin police following the incident.
Thank y’all so, so much for each and every kind message today and a special thank you to the @Austin_Police for their quick response that night and their ongoing support during this difficult time. Heart you guys so much. ♥️
— Meg Turney (@megturney) February 13, 2018
Hey everyone. I just wanted to say thanks for all the support and concern regarding the recent incident. It’s been a rough time for Meg and myself the last few weeks but we are doing ok. I want to give a huge thanks to @Austin_Police for the amazing response time. ❤️ you all.
— Gavin Free (@GavinFree) February 13, 2018