3 arrested in connection with deadly New Mexico shooting

Authorities in Las Cruces, New Mexico, have arrested three individuals in connection with a mass shooting at a local park that left three people dead and 15 others injured. The shooting occurred Friday night at Young Park during an unauthorized car show that drew a crowd of about 200 people.

The suspects include 20-year-old Tomas Rivas and two 17-year-old males, reports the Associated Press. Rivas and one of the teens were taken into custody on Saturday evening, while the second teen was arrested Sunday morning, according to a statement from the city of Las Cruces. Each suspect could face a murder charge, with additional charges pending. It remains unclear whether they have legal representation, and a message has been sent to the public defender’s office in Doña Ana County for confirmation.

Gunfire broke out shortly after 10 pm Friday following an altercation at the gathering, authorities said. The shooting claimed the lives of 16-year-old Andrew Madrid, 18-year-old Jason Gomez, and 19-year-old Dominick Estrada, who died later at a hospital. Nine male and six female victims, ranging in age from 16 to 36, were treated on-site or taken to hospitals.

Investigators are reviewing footage from the scene and seeking tips from those who attended. Police Chief Jeremy Story reported that between 50 and 60 handgun casings were found scattered across the park, indicating multiple shooters and weapons were involved.

Emergency services, including the police and fire departments, along with community groups, offered support for victims and their families at the Las Cruces Convention Center on Sunday.

“Crisis counseling, spiritual counseling and connecting victims with local resources and financial assistance will be provided,” the city statement said. “Anybody impacted by this tragedy is encouraged to attend.”

Fire Chief Michael Daniels stated that 11 patients were transported to local hospitals or the University Medical Center of El Paso, a regional trauma center. By Saturday, seven victims remained in El Paso, four had been treated and released, and the conditions of the remaining four were unknown.

The Las Cruces Police Department is receiving assistance from New Mexico State Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Chief Story acknowledged that illegal car shows at Young Park are not uncommon and that police presence has been stronger in the past. However, due to understaffing on Friday night, he had “no units available for most of the night.”

Las Cruces, a city located along the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico, sits about 40 miles from the US-Mexico border.