The Gainesville Sun reports that
Jerome Anthony Henry, 48, of Seville, and Richard David Smith and Robert Erwin Ford, both 50 and from Palatka, were killed inside the structure, a former bar that officers said people had been using as the location for a “high-stakes” poker game.
All four men had been involved in the game, which started Friday afternoon and continued through the night, said Sheriff’s Office spokesman Major Keith Riddick.
Crittenden had been in the game and lost, officers reported.
“We understand that he felt that they were cheating, and he went back apparently to confront them about that,” Riddick said.
This is one of the reasons I’ve generally stayed away from private games, despite the stories I’ve heard about how great they can be. There’s always an increased risk that you’re being cheated, but if you win, there’s also the chance that some shady character is going to think you cheated. Or just rob the place. Or that the game will be busted by the cops. I’d rather remain in the safety of my home and play tougher, smaller stakes games online- but play eight of them once!