A tragic mass shooting in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on Friday night left three people dead and 15 others injured, according to local police. The incident took place around 10 p.m. at Young Park during an “unsanctioned car show,” CNN reported.
Among the deceased are two 19-year-olds and a 16-year-old, though their identities have not yet been released. The injured victims, ranging in age from 16 to 36, were rushed to hospitals for treatment. Seven of them were later transferred to El Paso for further care, while four have already been treated and released. The condition of the remaining four remains unknown, Las Cruces Fire Chief Michael Daniels stated.
Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation between two groups at the event, escalating into gunfire. Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story confirmed that handgun-caliber shell casings were recovered at the scene.
As of now, no arrests have been made, but investigators are actively pursuing multiple leads.
Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez called the incident a devastating moment for the community. “This is a sad day for our city,” he said during a press conference, urging residents to stand together and support each other in the wake of the tragedy.
Las Cruces City Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Johana Bencomo echoed similar sentiments, calling the shooting “a heinous act of violence that will leave our city mourning.”
The shooting has left the tight-knit community in shock as authorities continue their investigation. Las Cruces, a city located about 41 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, now grapples with the aftermath of another tragic act of gun violence.
