Possible Death Penalty for Man Accused of Two Murders Including MGM Grand Incident

Overview of the Case

Dandre Owens, who has been labeled the “sex murderer,” is potentially facing the death penalty in Nevada. This is notable because executions in the state have not been carried out since 2006.

Prosecutors, led by Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney John Giordani, are considering pursuing the most severe punishment for Owens. He stands accused of killing two individuals, including one murder that took place at the MGM Grand hotel.

Details of the Crimes

Owens is alleged to have killed a woman in a hotel room at the MGM Grand following an intimate encounter. In a separate incident, he reportedly lured a man into the desert under false pretenses, murdered him, and left the body undiscovered for several months. Charges against Owens include kidnapping, murder, and robbery.

Timeline and Investigation Findings

The prosecution has outlined the sequence of events starting with the first victim, Britanni Bailey, who was shot in the back of the head at the MGM Grand early in the previous year. The second victim, Edward Kukish, was deceived into traveling to a remote desert location, believing it was a professional engagement.

Kukish was fatally shot twice in the head, and his possessions were taken by the suspect, according to officials. His remains were found in August 2024, although the murder occurred in January of the same year.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties

Owens denies all charges and maintains his innocence. If the prosecution successfully proves his guilt, he could face the death penalty, which in Nevada is executed exclusively by lethal injection.