A tragic incident occurred in Las Cruces where three individuals were killed and 15 others injured in a shooting during an unauthorised car show at Young Park on Friday night. Law enforcement responded to the scene just after 10 PM to find chaos as around 200 attendees were present at the event. Among the injured were gunshot victims aged between 16 and 36, many of whom were treated on-site or transferred to local hospitals.
Police Chief Jeremy Story reported that over 50 handgun casings were discovered at the park, indicating multiple shooters were involved in the confrontation between two groups known to harbour animosity towards each other. The deceased included a 16-year-old boy and two young men, aged 18 and 19; their names have not been made public as investigations continue.
As authorities work with New Mexico State Police, the FBI, and other agencies to determine potential suspects, they are reviewing video footage from the park and gathering details from witnesses. Las Cruces Fire Chief Michael Daniels indicated that 11 people were taken to hospitals, with various conditions reported among the victims.
Chief Story commented on the prevalence of illegal car shows in the area and acknowledged staffing shortages at the time of the shooting, which limited police presence. Local officials, including City Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Johana Bencomo, expressed sorrow over the events, highlighting a growing concern about violence in the community. Mayor Eric Enriquez called for unity and support for the victims and their families.
The incident has heightened discussions around public safety and gun control measures in New Mexico. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham expressed dismay over the rising crime rates and the legislative session’s failure to advance substantial public safety reforms. Past attempts to enhance penalties for various crimes and to strengthen gun regulations have taken place, but the governor reiterated the pressing need for reforms to address the culture of gun violence.
The community remains in shock as police continue to investigate, with the park area cordoned off as a major crime scene. The remarks from officials reflect a broader regional concern about gun violence and the necessity for effective solutions to prevent such tragedies from recurring in the future.