Las Cruces Shooting Leaves Three Dead, Fifteen Injured at Car Show

A tragic shooting in Las Cruces, New Mexico, has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to fifteen others. The Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) confirmed the grim details via their official Facebook page, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a large-scale investigation. The incident unfolded at Young Park on Friday night during what authorities described as an unsanctioned car show.

The deceased victims have been identified as two 19-year-olds and a 16-year-old. The injured individuals range in age from 16 to 36, highlighting the widespread impact of the violence. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest an altercation between two groups escalated into a deadly exchange of gunfire.

Addressing the media at a press conference, Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story emphasized the complexity of the crime scene and the challenges facing investigators. He noted the unsanctioned car show at Young Park had been a recurring issue, implying a potential connection between the event and the eruption of violence. Chief Story vowed to pursue the perpetrators relentlessly and bring them to justice, assuring the community that his officers were committed to uncovering the truth.

Fire Chief Michael Daniels provided further details regarding the victims, confirming a total of 18 individuals were affected by the shooting, including the three fatalities. He reported that four victims had been treated for their injuries and released, while seven others were transported to El Paso for more advanced medical care. The condition of the remaining four injured individuals remains uncertain.

The local NBC affiliate, KTSM, reported that a family feared one of their relatives may have been among those killed, though this information has not been officially verified by authorities. The uncertainty surrounding the victims and their families underscores the devastating emotional toll of the tragedy.

In a statement that sparked controversy, Chief Story criticized New Mexico’s policies, asserting that the shooting was a stark reminder of the "blatant disregard people in New Mexico have for the rule of law and order." He further lamented the "utter lack of fear of accountability" within the state, suggesting a broader societal problem contributing to the violence. This statement comes on the heels of criticism of New Mexico policy from a state lawmaker whose son was murdered. She criticized the Democrats for "homicide scholarships" after her crime bill was tanked.

The shooting occurred at approximately 10:00 p.m. local time. While no arrests have been made, police are actively pursuing multiple leads and urge anyone with information to come forward. Investigators believe that more than one firearm was used in the incident, indicating a coordinated or widespread escalation of violence.

Authorities have established a secure website where members of the public can upload videos of the incident: https://lascrucespdnm.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/25-030254. This initiative aims to gather as much visual evidence as possible to aid in the investigation.

In the wake of the shooting, police have closed off roads near Young Park to facilitate the investigation. The LCPD is receiving support from various law enforcement agencies, including the New Mexico State Police, the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The collaborative effort underscores the seriousness of the crime and the commitment to bringing those responsible to justice.

Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez addressed the community during the press conference, urging unity and support for the victims and their families. "We need to stand strong. We need to come together. So, please help us to heal and join me in my thoughts and prayers for the families and those lives that have been lost," Mayor Enriquez stated. His words reflect the city’s collective grief and determination to overcome the tragedy.

Las Cruces City Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Johana Bencomo expressed her heartbreak over the shooting on her Instagram account. "As with all acts of gun violence in our city and beyond, my heart is broken for the victims and the families impacted. This was a heinous act of violence that will leave our city mourning," Bencomo wrote. She emphasized the importance of supporting those directly affected by the tragedy and cautioned against spreading misinformation or rumors, urging the public to "be thoughtful in what you share or repeat."

The Las Cruces shooting adds to the ongoing national conversation about gun violence and its devastating impact on communities. The incident underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of violence and ensure public safety. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to uncover the full circumstances of the shooting and bring those responsible to justice. The community of Las Cruces now faces the difficult task of healing and rebuilding in the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of working together to create a safer and more peaceful society. The investigation is ongoing and those with any information are urged to contact the Las Cruces Police Department.