Las Cruces Mass Shooting: Two Suspects Arrested
Las Cruces police announced early Sunday morning that two suspects had been arrested in the New Mexico mass shooting Friday night that killed three people and wounded 15 more.
Just after 10 p.m. on Friday, police and fire responded to a “chaotic” scene at the city’s Young Park, about 25 miles from the Texas border. An unauthorized car show had drawn about 200 people, police said during a news conference.
What Happened at Young Park
Between 50 and 60 shell casings — all from handguns — were found scattered across a wide swath of the large park, Las Cruces police Chief Jeremy Story said. He said this suggested multiple shooters and multiple weapons within two groups with “ill will” toward each other, which police believe led to the shootings.
Story added that unauthorized car shows are not uncommon at the park. While he said there was usually a larger police presence, there were “no units available for most of the night” due to understaffing.
Arrests and Victims
Saturday evening, police arrested two suspects in the case on three counts of murder each, per a social media post. Tomas Rivas, 20, was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center. The other suspect’s identity was not released as he is a 17-year-old boy.
The identities of the three victims were also released in the social media statement. Andrew Madrid, 16, and Jason Gomez, 18, both died on the scene. Dominick Estrada, 19, was taken to an area hospital where he died from his injuries.
Police did not share an update on the status of the 15 other victims, just that their ages range from 16 to 36 and nine are male while six are female.
Investigation and Aftermath
Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the shooting, the post said, and Young Park remained closed Saturday evening while police continued to gather evidence.
The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico is also fundraising for the victims and their families. Information on the Together Las Cruces Crisis Action Fund can be found here.
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Conclusion
The mass shooting in Las Cruces, New Mexico, has left three people dead and 15 others wounded. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing. The community is coming together to support the victims and their families, and fundraising efforts are underway to provide assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Las Cruces, New Mexico?
A mass shooting occurred at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on Friday night, killing three people and wounding 15 others.
How many suspects have been arrested?
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting: Tomas Rivas, 20, and a 17-year-old boy whose identity has not been released.
What is the status of the victims?
Three people were killed in the shooting: Andrew Madrid, 16, Jason Gomez, 18, and Dominick Estrada, 19. The status of the 15 wounded victims has not been updated, but their ages range from 16 to 36.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are continuing to gather evidence.
How can I support the victims and their families?
The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico is fundraising for the victims and their families through the Together Las Cruces Crisis Action Fund. You can find more information and donate to the fund here.
