Shocking Turn of Events: Four Arrested in Deadly New Mexico Park Shooting! 🚨 In a devastating incident that has left the Las Cruces community reeling, four individuals have been arrested following a mass shooting at Young Park during an unsanctioned car show. The tragedy unfolded around 10 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025, when an altercation between two groups escalated into gunfire, resulting in the deaths of three teenagers and injuries to 15 others.
The victims who lost their lives have been identified as 16-year-old Andrew Madrid, 18-year-old Jason Gomez, and 19-year-old Dominick Estrada. Madrid and Gomez were pronounced dead at the scene, while Estrada succumbed to his injuries at MountainView Regional Medical Center.
The injured, ranging in age from 16 to 36, include nine males and six females. Some were treated at local hospitals in Las Cruces, while others were transported to facilities in El Paso for more specialized care.
Authorities have apprehended 20-year-old Tomas Rivas, along with two 17-year-old boys and a 15-year-old boy. Each faces three open counts of murder, with additional charges pending. The juveniles' names have not been released due to their age.
Investigators discovered between 50 to 60 handgun casings at the scene, indicating multiple shooters were involved. The unsanctioned car show had attracted approximately 200 attendees, many of whom were caught in the crossfire during the chaotic event.
Local officials have expressed profound grief and outrage. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham stated, "The indiscriminate nature of this shooting is both shocking and unacceptable." She emphasized the need for legislative action to address the state's crime crisis, particularly concerning juvenile justice and gun violence.
The Las Cruces Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, New Mexico State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, continues to investigate the incident. They are urging anyone with video footage or information to come forward to aid in the ongoing inquiry.
As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, support services, including crisis counseling and financial assistance, are being offered to victims and their families at the Las Cruces Convention Center.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of our communities. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this heartbreaking occurrence.