Ghazi "Gus" Osta, a 68-year-old jewelry store owner, was fatally shot on July 19, 2024, at his store, Volusia Gold and Diamond, located on West International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, Florida. The incident occurred after Osta got into an argument with 83-year-old John Craiger inside the store.
According to investigators and accounts from Osta's family, the argument escalated into a violent confrontation.
Osta's son, who was in the back of the store, heard his father shouting, "Get this guy out of my store." Shortly after, gunshots were heard, prompting Osta's son to intervene. The son ran out with his own gun and shot Craiger, but the situation continued to escalate as Craiger fired back multiple times. Osta's son then crawled behind a counter and called 911 for help.
During the chaos, a customer intervened by striking Craiger in the head with a statue and then held him down by taking his gun until the police arrived. Despite the efforts to save him, Ghazi Osta succumbed to his injuries.
John Craiger was subsequently charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder. In November 2024, Craiger pleaded guilty to these charges and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The community and Osta's family have been deeply affected by his death. Osta's wife, Leigh, reflected on the tragedy and the impact it has had on their family. She mentioned that her husband's death has changed them but also strengthened their resolve to continue his legacy. The family plans to establish scholarships in Ghazi Osta's name, including one with the Gemological Institute of America.
In honor of Ghazi Osta's life and legacy, Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry declared September 4, 2024, as "Ghazi Osta Day." This proclamation was presented to Leigh Osta during a city commission meeting, where she spoke about the significance of her husband's contributions to the community and their plans to keep his memory alive.
