Authorities have arrested a 20-year-old man and three teenagers on suspicion of murder following a tragic shooting incident that occurred on Friday night in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The shooting, which took place at Young Park, resulted in three fatalities and left 15 others injured. The identities of the suspects include Tomas Rivas, along with two 17-year-old males and a 15-year-old male, who were taken into custody over the weekend, according to a statement released by the city.
The violent outbreak occurred around 10 p.m. at Young Park, where an unauthorized car show attracted approximately 200 attendees. Witnesses reported that an altercation broke out, which quickly escalated into gunfire. Among the victims, 9 males and 6 females, ranging from ages 16 to 36, were either treated on-site or transported to local hospitals. Tragically, Andrew Madrid, aged 16, and Jason Gomez, aged 18, were pronounced dead at the scene, while Dominick Estrada, aged 19, succumbed to his injuries later at a hospital.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are actively seeking video footage from the park and encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward with tips. The police and fire departments, along with community organizations, are providing essential support to the victims and their families. From Sunday through Tuesday, assistance will be available at the Las Cruces Convention Center, offering crisis counseling, spiritual support, and connections to local resources and financial aid.
The police chief, Jeremy Story, reported that between 50 and 60 handgun casings were found scattered throughout the park, indicating the presence of multiple shooters and firearms. Fire Chief Michael Daniels confirmed that 11 individuals were sent to three local hospitals, including the regional trauma center, University Medical Center of El Paso. As of Saturday, seven patients were receiving care in El Paso, while four victims had been treated and released. The conditions of the remaining casualties were still unknown.
Local law enforcement is receiving support from the New Mexico State Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Chief Story highlighted that illegal car shows at Young Park are a recurring issue, and a lack of adequate police staffing on Friday limited their ability to manage the situation effectively. He expressed concern regarding the safety of attendees, stating that they were not only at risk from gunfire but also from vehicles performing reckless maneuvers in the parking lot.
U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, who represents the area where the shooting took place, emphasized the need for local authorities to collaborate effectively to enhance public safety in parks like Young Park. He described the event as chaotic and lawless, underlining the urgency for improved measures to protect the community.
Las Cruces, located on the edge of the Chihuahuan Desert along the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico, is situated about 40 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. The community is now grappling with the aftermath of this violence, as officials and residents alike strive for a safer environment for all.
