LAS CRUCES, NM – A shocking mass shooting at an unsanctioned car rally in Las Cruces has left the community reeling after three teenagers were killed and 15 others injured. Authorities have taken three individuals into custody in connection with the incident, which occurred Friday night at a local park.
The suspects include two 17-year-old boys and a 20-year-old man named Tomas Rivas. They are facing charges of murder, with additional charges expected as the investigation progresses. The police are determined to hold all responsible parties accountable for the tragic events.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire erupted during the rally, which is known to occur monthly without official sanction. A video posted on social media captured the moment shots were fired, sending a crowd of attendees scrambling for safety.
An altercation between two groups reportedly escalated to gunfire, resulting in the deaths of 16-year-old Andrew Madrid, 18-year-old Jason Gomez, and 19-year-old Dominique Estrada. Estrada was transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Law enforcement officials reported finding 50 to 60 bullet casings scattered across the park, underscoring the scale of the violence. The governor of New Mexico, Michelle Lujan Grisham, has pledged state resources to aid in the investigation, emphasizing the need to address juvenile crime and public safety.
Governor Grisham lamented the rise in violent crime, noting that incidents in Las Cruces have surged by 46%. She expressed frustration with the ongoing issues, calling for an end to such tragedies and a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of violence.
The community remains in shock as authorities continue their investigation. Many residents are calling for increased measures to ensure safety at public events and prevent future incidents.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on bringing justice to the victims and their families while addressing the broader issues of public safety and youth violence.