Tragic Shooting in Las Cruces Park Claims Three Lives and Injures Fifteen

SANTA FE, N.M. -- A violent altercation erupted at Young Park in Las Cruces late Friday night, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to 15 others, according to local law enforcement officials. The incident occurred shortly after 10 p.m. during an unauthorized car show that attracted approximately 200 attendees.

Upon arrival, police and emergency responders encountered a chaotic scene. Victims, whose ages range from 16 to 36, received treatment at the park or were transported to nearby hospitals. Evidence from the scene indicates a significant number of gunshots were fired, with police discovering between 50 and 60 shell casings scattered across the area. This evidence suggests that multiple shooters may have been involved, stemming from a conflict between two groups.

Authorities have confirmed that the deceased include a 16-year-old boy and two young men aged 18 and 19. Their identities have not yet been disclosed. Local police are collaborating with the New Mexico State Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to investigate the incident.

Las Cruces Fire Chief Michael Daniels reported that 11 individuals were sent to various hospitals, including the University Medical Center of El Paso, which serves as the regional trauma center. As of Saturday, seven victims were hospitalized in El Paso, four had been treated and released, and the conditions of the remaining four were still unknown.

Authorities are actively seeking video footage from the park and are encouraging anyone who witnessed the event to come forward with information regarding potential suspects. Police Chief Jeremy Story condemned the violence, describing it as a senseless act that reflects a troubling disregard for law and order in New Mexico. He pledged to hold those responsible accountable through the criminal justice system.

Chief Story noted that illegal car shows at Young Park are not uncommon, and the police presence had been larger in the past. However, due to staffing shortages on that particular night, no units were available to monitor the event. In an expression of grief, City Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem Johana Bencomo remarked on the troubling nature of such violence occurring in their community, while Mayor Eric Enriquez called for unity and support for the victims and their families.

The area surrounding Young Park remained closed off as police continued their investigation. Chief Story described the scene as a significant crime scene with many factors to consider, indicating that it would take time to process fully.

In light of these events, the state Senate in Santa Fe held a moment of silence as news of the shootings circulated. This tragedy underscores ongoing concerns regarding crime rates and gun violence in New Mexico, prompting Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to express her sorrow for the victims and their families, as well as her frustration over the lack of progress on public safety legislation.

Governor Lujan Grisham highlighted the apparent abundance of firearms involved in this incident, emphasizing the need for more robust measures to prevent such tragedies. Recent legislative efforts included tightening penalties for vehicle theft and trafficking of fentanyl, as well as reforms to the state's red-flag gun law, which allows for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a threat.

Las Cruces, located near the Chihuahuan Desert along the Rio Grande and approximately 40 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, faces ongoing challenges related to public safety and violence.