Home Invasion Turns Fatal After College Student Refuses to Share His iPad Passcode

A Tennessee man, Rainess Holmes III, has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and multiple other charges related to the 2021 shooting death of 22-year-old Andrew Rainer, a college student at Rhodes College in Memphis. Holmes, one of four men involved in a violent robbery, was sentenced to 20 years in prison without parole. The tragic incident occurred on October 3, 2021, when a group of armed men broke into the home where Rainer was staying as a guest.

A Violent Home Invasion

Early in the morning of October 3, 2021, Rainer and four others were in the house when the robbers, masked and armed, stormed in, demanding valuables such as electronics. The intruders ordered the occupants to keep their heads down. During the robbery, one of the men tried to force Rainer to unlock his iPad. When Rainer refused, the assailant shot him in the chest. Despite the gunshot, Rainer attempted to fight back but was unable to survive the attack. His girlfriend was also injured when another shot hit her in the hand.

The Robbery and Its Aftermath

The robbers stole multiple items, including phones, gaming systems, and an iPad. Rainer’s lifeless body was found at the bottom of a staircase. Following the incident, one of the victims managed to track the stolen iPad, leading police to Holmes, who was found with additional stolen goods at a local hotel. Holmes was arrested and initially charged with first-degree murder, but he later pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and three counts of aggravated burglary.

Holmes Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

Holmes received a sentence of 20 years in prison for second-degree murder and three concurrent three-year sentences for the burglary charges. Rainer’s family supported the plea agreement, as the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office stated. Holmes had no chance of parole, ensuring he would serve a significant portion of his sentence.

Honoring Andrew Rainer’s Legacy

Andrew Rainer, who was remembered as a talented musician and dedicated student, was deeply involved in his college’s jazz ensemble and was an active member of the Catholic Church. His family created the “Live Like Drew” memorial fund to celebrate his life and honor his memory. The fund seeks to continue his legacy of kindness, courage, and community involvement.