LAS CRUCES, N.M. – A tragic incident unfolded in Las Cruces, New Mexico, leaving three individuals dead and 15 others injured during a mass shooting at a local park. The victims, including two young men aged 19 and 18, along with a 16-year-old boy, were involved in the altercation. Police have refrained from releasing the identities of the deceased and injured individuals at this time, with the injured individuals spanning from ages 16 to 36.
Authorities have taken individuals into custody in connection to the investigation, although no arrests have been made as of yet. The incident occurred at Young Park during an unsanctioned car show on Friday night. Police responded to reports of gunfire and multiple gunshot victims near the park’s parking lot, where the altercation had escalated between two groups.
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story noted a pre-existing “ill will” between the two parties prior to the event, with multiple attendees carrying weapons that led to the exchange of fire. The presence of firearms escalated the confrontation, resulting in injuries sustained by individuals caught in the crossfire. Despite circulating images of an individual with an AR-15 on social media, authorities have clarified that the individual was not involved in the shooting.
Story mentioned the discovery of handgun casings but no rifle casings, emphasizing the issue of firearms at car shows in Las Cruces. The Memorial Medical Center received six patients from the incident, with victims transported to various local hospitals for treatment. Police continue to pursue leads to identify the suspect or suspects responsible, as well as appealing to the public for any video evidence of the events for further investigation.
In the wake of the tragedy, Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez expressed condolences for the senseless violence that rocked the community, emphasizing the need to address such incidents. Police are urging anyone with video footage of the incident to submit it for review, particularly footage showing the shooting or individuals carrying firearms. The gravity of the situation calls for a thorough investigation to bring justice and closure to the victims and their families.