A cloud of grief descended upon Largo, Florida, following the tragic demise of Jodie Stout, a respected resident and the owner-founder of Stout’s Automotive. The community was left in shock after an unfortunate incident unfolded at Stout’s Automotive, located at 1801 S Belcher Road, on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, resulting in the loss of two lives.
The devastating event began when Largo dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting an active shooter at Stout’s Automotive around 11:26 a.m. Responding swiftly, law enforcement discovered a horrifying scene upon arrival. Two individuals, including Jodie Stout, had been shot in the office area. Despite immediate medical attention, both victims succumbed to their injuries after being rushed to nearby hospitals.
The assailant was identified as 78-year-old Eugene Frank Becker, a former client of Stout’s Automotive. According to investigators, Becker had visited the automotive shop, approached the front desk, and specifically asked for Jodie Stout. Without warning, Becker pulled out a gun and opened fire, prompting Stout to defend himself, leading to a tragic exchange of gunfire that left both men severely injured.
Further investigation revealed that Becker had a history with Stout’s Automotive, having visited the shop in 2021 for car maintenance. It is suspected that Becker harbored resentment, possibly believing he was overcharged and dissatisfied with the service provided. His motives appear to stem from an incident on September 18, 2023, when Becker was involved in a car accident in Pinellas Park. This incident left him hospitalized and frustrated, possibly contributing to his actions.
Brandon Jones shared his sorrow on the death of Jodie. He stated that:
Yesterday was a rough day.We lost a member of the family. Jodie was a great husband, Dad and Poppa.Headline should read: Auto Store Owner, Jodie Stout, killed, defending himself,saving his staff because he was armedLord knows who else could have been hurt or killed if Jodie was not able to defend himself.Praying for everyone in the Stout family and those who was impacted by Jodie. I know I was.Godspeed Jodie#Largo#shooting
Jodie Stout, 52, leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurship and community involvement, his tragic end a stark reminder of the impact of unresolved grievances. Largo Police, Clearwater Police, and Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office SWAT forces diligently worked to secure the area and investigate the incident thoroughly.
As the community mourns the loss of Jodie Stout, they are left grappling with the senseless violence that unfolded within the walls of Stout’s Automotive. Friends and neighbors remember him not just as a business owner, but as a devoted husband, father, and “Poppa,” who tragically lost his life in an act of revenge that has left the community in mourning and searching for answers.
