Rainess Holmes, a repeat felon with charges dating back to 2005, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in connection with the 2021 murder of Rhodes College student Andrew “Drew” Rainer. Holmes, now 40, was sentenced to serve 100% of a 20-year prison sentence, in addition to a combined nine years for three separate burglary cases. Along with three other men, Holmes broke into a Memphis home where Rainer and other college students lived, demanding their electronics. When Rainer failed to provide the passcode to his iPad, he was shot and killed by one of the suspects.
Memphis police found Rainer dead with a gunshot wound at the bottom of a staircase inside the home. The suspects stole several phones, gaming systems, video games, and other electronics belonging to the victims. One of the residents was able to track his iPad’s location to a hotel, leading to Holmes’ brief detainment before he escaped the area. Two days later, Holmes was apprehended and taken into custody with the help of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Despite Holmes’ guilty plea, Memphis police are still searching for the other three suspects involved in the home invasion and murder. Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to their arrest.
The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office worked closely with Rainer’s family throughout the legal process and said in a statement that the family was present and supportive of the outcome. Although Holmes was not the suspect who fatally shot Rainer, investigators are still seeking the public’s help in identifying the other individuals responsible for Rainer’s murder. A memorial fund called “Live Like Drew” was created in Rainer’s name, which described him as a young man who loved intensely, showed courage and self-sacrifice, and was involved in various activities, including music, scouting, and his church.
Andrew “Drew” Rainer was described as a loving son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend who had a kind, cheerful, intelligent, and outgoing personality. He was known for his musical talents, involvement in the Catholic Church, and being an Eagle Scout. His obituary painted a picture of a well-rounded young man who was loved by many. The tragic loss of Rainer deeply impacted his family and friends, who remember him fondly for his positive qualities and contributions to the community. The devastating effects of his untimely death continue to be felt by all who knew and cared for him.
