Residents of Flamingo Crossings Village West were shaken on the night of May 7, 2025, when gunshots were heard around 10:10 p.m. in the complex’s parking lot.
The property, located in Winter Garden, Florida, is known for housing participants of Disney’s College Program and Cultural Representative Program, young adults from around the world who work at Walt Disney World while living in community-based housing.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting stemmed from an argument between two men in their 20s. Both individuals were injured in the exchange and transported to a local hospital. Their current conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
Residents Capture the Shocking Aftermath
Within minutes of the incident, videos and photos began surfacing on social media, shared by residents who witnessed the scene from their windows. Some clips show the two individuals on the ground in the aftermath of the gunfire, while others captured the arrival of emergency responders.
The spread of these videos has only intensified concern among residents and their families, raising questions about security at the complex and whether enough is being done to protect those living on the property.
A Breach of Policy in a No-Weapons Community
Flamingo Crossings Village is managed by American Campus Communities and serves as the official housing provider for many Disney programs. The property enforces a strict no-weapons policy, which makes the presence of a firearm and its use in a public altercation particularly alarming.
For many residents, this housing is more than just a place to sleep; it’s meant to be a safe, supportive environment where they can focus on their roles at Walt Disney World and build professional experience.
No Statement From American Campus Yet
Despite the severity of the incident and the viral spread of video footage, American Campus Communities has not communicated with residents. This silence has left many feeling unsettled and unsupported.
Some residents have taken to social media to express frustration at the lack of updates, with calls for better transparency, more visible security, and emergency communication protocols in place for future incidents.
Holding Space for Healing in a Shared Home
As the investigation continues, the shooting has sparked broader conversations about the realities of communal living and the unique vulnerabilities faced by young adults in corporate-sponsored housing. Many residents are away from home, often for the first time, and expect safety to be a top priority.
Now, the community waits for answers, not just from law enforcement but also from the management team responsible for their well-being. For many, this isn’t just about one violent night; it’s about ensuring something like this doesn’t happen again.
Just moved our son out of DCP. This incident is particularly alarming considering how many times American and Disney emphasizes in the DCP application and acceptance process that they are “not responsible for your safety and security” while at the safe time having rules that prevent you from bringing anything with you to protect yourself. Can’t even have a taser. Not sure your even allowed pepper spray.
Cultural Representative Program and you are shocked there was a shooting. Disney should put their money to better use.