An Airbnb host in Gwinnett County, Georgia was allegedly tied up and robbed at gunpoint by a rented guest on September 26, 2023.
The suspect, 26-year-old Khalil Hamilton, rented a basement room on Airbnb at the victim’s residence in Buford, a suburb outside of Atlanta. According to police, Hamilton entered the home around 11:00 PM and tied up the victim at gunpoint. He then stole the victim’s wallet, backpack, and other belongings.
The victim’s wife and child were also in the home at the time, but they were not injured.
Hamilton fled the scene after the robbery, but police are still searching for him.
Airbnb has released a statement condemning the robbery and offering support to the victim and his family. The company has also said that it is working with police to investigate the incident.
What can Airbnb hosts do to protect themselves from crime?
Airbnb hosts can take a number of steps to protect themselves from crime, including:
- Screen guests carefully. Airbnb allows hosts to screen guests before they book a stay. Hosts should review the guest’s profile and read any reviews from previous hosts.
- Set clear house rules. Hosts should set clear house rules and communicate them to guests before they book a stay. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and disputes.
- Have a safety plan. Hosts should have a safety plan in place in case of an emergency. This plan should include knowing how to call 911 and having a safe place to go.
What should guests do if they are staying in an Airbnb?
Guests who are staying in an Airbnb should also take a number of steps to protect themselves from crime, including:
- Be aware of your surroundings. Guests should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. This includes locking doors and windows when they are not home and being careful about walking alone at night.
- Report any suspicious activity to the host or to Airbnb. If guests see anything suspicious, they should report it to the host or to Airbnb immediately.
Airbnb is a popular platform for travelers, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved. By taking steps to protect themselves, hosts and guests can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.