Empire State Review Team 
Mass Shooting in Las Cruces, New Mexico Claims Lives
A tragic incident unfolded late Friday night in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where a mass shooting occurred during an unsanctioned car show at Young Park. The Las Cruces Police Department reported that three individuals lost their lives, and 15 others sustained injuries in the chaos.
Incident Overview
According to police authorities, the shooting took place around 10 p.m. local time. The event drew a large crowd, but a dispute broke out between two groups, leading to shots being fired. Police Chief Jeremy Story indicated that members from both parties were involved in the exchange of gunfire.
Victims Identified
Among the deceased are two young men, both aged 19, and a 16-year-old boy. Those injured in the shooting ranged in age from 16 to 36 years old. While the identities of the victims have not yet been disclosed, local authorities are awaiting further updates on the condition of four of the injured individuals.
Investigation Details
As the investigation unfolds, police have noted that while there was a report of an individual armed with an AR-15, they confirmed that this person was not connected to the shooting. They collected bullet casings from the scene, all of which were traced back to handguns.
Community Response
Local officials expressed their shock and sorrow over the violence. Mayor Eric Enriquez described the incident as a “tragic, senseless, horrible event” during a morning press conference, extending his condolences to the victims’ families. Similarly, Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Johana Bencomo took to social media to share her grief, emphasizing that events like these leave a lasting impact on the community.
Call for Public Assistance
In light of the ongoing investigation, police are asking anyone present during the shooting who may have photos or videos of the event to come forward and upload their evidence to a secure site provided by the Las Cruces Police Department.
Conclusion
The city of Las Cruces, nestled alongside the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico, is in mourning after this unfortunate event. Authorities are working diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting while providing support to those affected.
For detailed information and updates from the Las Cruces Police Department, visit their official channels.
