The small community of Las Cruces, New Mexico, was shaken by a mass shooting that occurred at Young Park on Friday night, leaving three teenagers dead and injuring 15 others. Authorities have detained four individuals—a 20-year-old and three juveniles—in connection with the tragedy.
CNN reported that the shooting took place during what police described as an "unsanctioned car show," which turned violent after a disagreement between two groups.
The altercation led to gunfire shortly after 10 p.m., leaving three young lives lost. Andrew Madrid, 16; Jason Gomez, 18; and Dominick Estrada, 19, were identified as the deceased.
In addition to the tragic loss of life, the senseless act of violence resulted in injuries to 15 people. Among the injured, there were nine males and six females with ages ranging from 16 to 36. The community is rattled by the destruction brought to what was intended to be a local gathering.
Las Cruces Police quickly moved to bring suspects into custody. On Saturday, they apprehended Tomas Rivas, 20, along with a 17-year-old boy.
By Sunday, they also captured another 17-year-old and a 15-year-old, both facing serious charges. All four suspects have been charged with murder, and additional charges are anticipated as the investigation unfolds.
The legal consequences for those involved include Rivas being held without bond at Dona Ana County Detention Center. The three juvenile suspects are detained separately in the juvenile section of the facility. It remains uncertain whether any of the suspects have secured legal representation.
The park remains off-limits as authorities continue their investigation into the 53rd mass shooting of 2025, according to the Gun Violence Archive. This tragic event highlights a growing concern for public safety amid rising instances of gun violence across the nation.
"This is a sad day for our community," lamented Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez. City leaders are appealing to residents to stand together during these trying times.
"I want to ask the community to gather together, to stand strong and united as we try to heal and face this tragic event that took place in our city," Mayor Enriquez urged.
In response to the heartbreaking events, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has established a fundraiser. The initiative aims to support the victims and their families during this difficult period, emphasizing community solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity.
As the city grapples with the aftermath, the continuity of these support efforts seeks to provide both emotional and financial resources to assist those affected
. The healing process is expected to be long and arduous for the residents of Las Cruces as they come to terms with the events that unfolded last week.
Young Park, typically a place for rest and recreation, now symbolizes the sorrow that has impacted Las Cruces.
For investigators, it remains a site of ongoing inquiries as they work to piece together the circumstances leading to this dreadful occurrence.
Residents of Las Cruces are reminded of the persistent challenges posed by gun violence as they strive to heal from the loss and pain inflicted by the shooting. However, with strong leadership and community efforts, there is optimism for a future where safety and peace can once again prevail.
