Authorities say a fight at an unsanctioned car show sparked the deadly shooting in Young Park. No arrests yet as community mourns.
Las Cruces [US], March 23 – A late-night shooting at a crowded park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, has left three people dead and 15 others injured, sending shockwaves through the local community. The shooting, which broke out during an unauthorized car show in Young Park on Friday around 10 PM (local time), is being described as a “heinous act of violence” by city officials.
According to Las Cruces Police, the victims include two 19-year-olds and a 16-year-old, whose identities have not yet been released. The injured range in age from 16 to 36 years old, and at least seven have been transferred to hospitals in El Paso for further treatment.
“This is a sad day for our community. I ask everyone to stand strong and united as we try to heal from this tragedy,” said Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez at a press briefing.
What Happened: A Car Show Turns Deadly
Police said the violence stemmed from a dispute between two groups during an unsanctioned car meet at the park. The confrontation quickly escalated into gunfire. Authorities confirmed that handgun-caliber shell casings were recovered from the scene.
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story confirmed that the shooting left three dead and 15 injured, revising initial numbers.
“We’re actively following multiple leads, but no arrests have been made so far,” he added.
Response & Community Grief
Local hospitals treated several victims, and four have been released. The condition of the others remains unknown, said Las Cruces Fire Chief Michael Daniels.
“My heart is broken for the victims and families impacted,” said City Councilor Johana Bencomo, who also serves as Mayor Pro Tem.
She described the shooting as a “heinous act of violence that will leave our city mourning” in an emotional Instagram post.
Las Cruces, located about 41 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, is known for its quiet desert surroundings and family-friendly parks—making the violence even more jarring.
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to urge anyone with information or footage from the park to come forward, as investigators piece together the events that led to the deadly altercation. Officials are also reviewing the legality of events like the car show, which was not authorized by the city.