In Grand Theft Auto V, one of the missions you’ll encounter while playing as Franklin involves eliminating key individuals in order to influence a court case. This is part of the Strangers and Freaks side questline for Lester Crest, specifically the mission titled The Hotel Assassination. Your target in this mission is a juror, someone set to decide the fate of a major company. The outcome of this assassination can affect the stock market, so knowing exactly how to take out the juror in GTA 5 efficiently and discreetly can make a big difference both in mission success and profit. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to take out the juror effectively, step-by-step.
Understanding the Hotel Assassination Mission
Mission Overview
The Hotel Assassination mission is one of the most important early tasks assigned by Lester to Franklin. In this mission, Lester instructs Franklin to eliminate a juror named Brett Lowrey, a high-profile target staying at the Von Crastenburg Hotel in Richman. The juror is key to influencing a legal case that will directly impact the stock market, particularly the shares of Bilkinton and Betta Pharmaceuticals.
Importance of Timing
This mission is more than just about taking out a juror it’s an opportunity to make money. Lester recommends investing in specific stocks before and after completing the mission. However, for the purpose of this guide, we will focus solely on the gameplay mechanics required to successfully eliminate the juror.
Preparations Before Taking the Shot
Equip a Sniper Rifle with Suppressor
The most efficient way to take out the juror is by using a sniper rifle, ideally with a suppressor. If you don’t already own one, you can purchase it from any Ammu-Nation store before the mission begins. A suppressed weapon helps avoid alerting nearby NPCs or law enforcement.
Know the Target’s Routine
Once the mission begins, you’ll be told that the juror is staying at the hotel and is about to exit. You’ll have a short window of time to get into position and prepare the shot before the target leaves the hotel premises. The juror is dressed in a white suit and exits the hotel escorted by bodyguards.
- Arrive early to find the perfect sniping spot.
- Check the mini-map for enemy locations and target movement.
- Avoid drawing attention from pedestrians or security.
Reaching the Ideal Sniper Location
Climb the Construction Site
Drive Franklin to the parking lot near the hotel. From here, look for a nearby construction site that offers a clear line of sight to the hotel entrance. Climb to the top using stairs or ladders. This elevated position allows you to observe the front of the hotel and wait for the juror to appear.
Scope Out the Area
Once you’re in position, pull out your sniper rifle and activate the scope. You’ll see people exiting the hotel. Keep your scope trained on the front entrance and wait for the juror to arrive. He typically comes out after a brief delay, talking on the phone and walking toward a limousine.
Executing the Assassination
Time the Shot Precisely
The goal is to take out the juror with a single clean shot, preferably to the head, without alerting his bodyguards or triggering a police response. The best time to take the shot is just as he steps away from the entrance and is in the open, with no civilians blocking your view.
Alternative Methods
If you prefer not to use a sniper rifle, there are other methods you can attempt:
- Drive-by Shooting: Park your car near the hotel and shoot from the vehicle when the juror exits.
- Sticky Bomb: Plant explosives near the juror’s car and detonate once he’s nearby. However, this can draw police attention.
- Melee Attack: Extremely risky and not recommended due to the presence of bodyguards.
Escaping After the Kill
Quick Exit Strategy
Once the juror is down, the next step is to leave the area fast. If you used a sniper rifle from a rooftop, retrace your path down and get into your vehicle. Avoid lingering or engaging with bodyguards. A clean kill followed by a fast getaway will prevent gaining a wanted level.
Handling Law Enforcement
If you happen to attract police attention during the mission, evade your wanted level by:
- Driving into alleys or tunnels to break line of sight.
- Switching vehicles to throw off pursuit.
- Using Pay ‘n’ Spray (Los Santos Customs) to change your car’s appearance.
Completing the Mission with Gold
Gold Medal Requirements
To fully complete the mission with a gold medal, you’ll need to meet the following objectives:
- Time: Complete the mission within a specific time limit (typically under 1 minute and 30 seconds).
- Clean Assassination: Take out the juror with a single headshot from a sniper rifle.
- No Police Alert: Avoid attracting law enforcement during or after the kill.
Completing all three will reward you with the Gold Medal for the mission, increasing your overall completion percentage in GTA 5.
Extra Tips for Maximum Efficiency
Save Before Starting
Before starting the mission, create a manual save. This allows you to retry if you miss the shot or alert the authorities. It’s also useful if you’re timing the stock market to maximize profits from the assassination.
Use Franklin’s Special Ability
If things go south, remember to use Franklin’s driving special ability. It can help during a quick getaway by allowing sharp turns and high-speed escapes in traffic.
Combine with Stock Investment
Although not part of the gameplay mechanics of taking out the juror directly, it’s worth mentioning that Lester’s assassination missions are tied to stock manipulation. For the Hotel Assassination, invest in Betta Pharmaceuticals before starting and sell after their stock peaks post-mission.
Taking out the juror in GTA 5 is a crucial task that requires precision, timing, and a solid escape plan. By using a sniper rifle, positioning yourself correctly, and waiting for the perfect moment, you can eliminate the target cleanly and complete the mission without attracting attention. With proper preparation and execution, not only will you successfully complete the mission, but you’ll also be set up for financial gains via the in-game stock market. This assassination is one of several chances GTA V gives players to blend strategic planning with sharp shooting for maximum impact.