A mass shooting at an unsanctioned car show in Las Cruces, New Mexico, left three dead and fifteen injured on Friday. The tragic incident occurred at Young Park around 10:00 PM local time, according to authorities.
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story confirmed the deaths of two 19-year-old men and a 16-year-old boy during a press conference. He stated the shooting stemmed from an altercation between two rival groups that escalated into gunfire. Story explained that both groups fired guns which injured several bystanders. Police recovered approximately 50-60 bullet casings from the scene, emphasizing the chaos that unfolded.
Around 200 people attended the event, a regular gathering for modified sports car enthusiasts. Firearms were present at the event, and some were used during the shooting, Chief Story said. However, he added that others carried guns “willy nilly,” though not all were involved in the violence.
Emergency responders and law enforcement, including the FBI and ATF, quickly arrived to assist victims and secure the area. Fire Chief Michael Daniels reported that seven injured individuals were transferred to El Paso, Texas hospitals, while four others were treated and released locally.
The victims, ranging in age from 16 to 36, have not yet been publicly identified. Police are urging witnesses to provide information or video evidence to help identify suspects. Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez condemned the violence, calling it a “senseless and tragic event” that has no place in the community. He promised efforts to improve safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The mass shooting highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence, especially in states like New Mexico, where open carry laws are in effect. Authorities continue investigating the shooting, which they described as a stark reminder of the need to uphold safety and the rule of law.
