On September 27 in Largo, Florida, a dispute at Stout’s Automotive culminated in a deadly altercation between Eugene Frank Becker, a 78-year-old former customer, and Jodie Stout, the 52-year-old shop owner. The disagreement stemmed from Becker’s belief that he had been overcharged for vehicle repairs performed two years prior.
According to witnesses and information gathered by the Largo Police Department, Becker approached the shop in a rental car. Upon entering, he actively sought out Stout. During their confrontation, Becker pulled out a handgun and fired at the owner. In self-defense, Stout retaliated, extracting his own firearm and firing back at Becker.
The exchange tragically resulted in fatal wounds for both men. Medical personnel transported them to a nearby hospital where they were pronounced dead on arrival.
Delving deeper into the background of the altercation, the Largo Police Department revealed that Becker had previously visited the shop in 2021. He had expressed displeasure with the service rendered, asserting that he had been unfairly charged. This financial disagreement appeared to have persisted, leading to the fatal confrontation two years later.
Furthermore, family members and close acquaintances of Becker disclosed his involvement in a car accident in September 2022. The aftermath of this accident plunged Becker into a state of depression. This recent personal hardship could potentially have intensified the emotional magnitude of his dispute with Stout.
As Largo mourns the loss of two community members, investigations continue.
