LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — A tragic mass shooting unfolded during an unauthorized car show at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on Friday night, March 21, 2025, resulting in three fatalities and 15 others injured. Authorities released alarming video footage and chilling 911 calls on Tuesday, March 25, depicting horrific scenes of panic as gunfire rang out.
Witnesses described the chaotic moments leading up to the shooting at approximately 9:00 PM, shortly after two groups began to clash during the gathering of about 200 people. One bystander, recording the event on his cellphone, gasped, "Oh my god, I just witnessed a murder!" as panic erupted and people scrambled for safety.
The Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story characterized the incident as one of the most brutal occurrences in the city's history. "This is not a traditional active shooter event where the motive or motivation is to kill and injure as many people as you can, as quickly as you can," he stated at a news conference. "Unfortunately, the results were the same." The police chief outlined the scene as one of utter chaos, with officers immediately rushing in to aid the wounded.
Among the deceased were Andrew Madrid, 16, Jason Gomez, 18, and Dominick Estrada, 19. The injured ranged in age from 16 to 36, and several were treated on-site by the Las Cruces Fire Department, which had prepared 25 members for emergencies. Victims were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, some requiring transport to facilities in El Paso, Texas, for more serious injuries.
The police announced that four individuals—Tomas Rivas, 20, and three juvenile males aged 15 and 17—are facing charges of first-degree murder. Currently, Rivas is being held without bond at the Dona Ana County Detention Center, while the juveniles are detained at a separate facility. The police have indicated that further arrests may follow, as investigations continue into the chaotic altercation.
Police reports suggest prior disputes between the two groups involved may have ignited the violence, marking the event as a tense gathering with unresolved tensions. Furthermore, investigators are uncovering vital evidence, including recovered weapons linked to the shooting. Three of the firearms were reported stolen.
The community's response to this disturbing incident has been one of solidarity and grief. Mayor Eric Enriquez expressed deep sorrow for the families affected, stating, "Let me be clear, this incident will not be tolerated in our community. We stand united against violence in all of its forms." He emphasized the city's commitment to support law enforcement and ensure accountability for those responsible for the shooting.
In the aftermath, community leaders are collaborating to organize fundraising initiatives for victims and their families, spearheaded by the Las Cruces Police Department and the city via the Together Las Cruces Crisis Action Fund. Information about fundraisers and community support will be shared through official channels.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities continue to collect evidence from the crime scene, including over 50 spent shell casings, all from various handguns. The chaotic atmosphere of that night, fueled by rising tensions and impulsive decisions, leads to a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise from violence.
A series of unfortunate events the night of the shooting showcases how gun violence can ripple through a community, affecting lives far beyond those directly involved. As the families of the victims mourn their loss, the echoes of that tragic night serve to galvanize advocates against violence.
The Las Cruces community is grappling with this tragedy, united in their determination to confront the rampant spread of violence that has crept into their town. As residents process the shock, there is a clear call for continued conversations about safety and the prevention of similar incidents in the future.
The investigations may bring about justice, but the scars left by the event will carry through the community for much longer. While the authorities pursue leads and gather evidence, residents are left in the haunting aftermath, striving for a sense of normalcy in the wake of this profound loss.
