What began as an informal car show quickly became a night of horror at the Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico. On Friday around 10:00 pm gunfire was shot among a crowd of about 200 people, killing three people, and 15 others were injured in the city’s deadliest shooting in public, as per a report by the Associated Press.
Evidence hints at multiple shooters
Police Chief Jeremy Story called the scene chaotic, as victims included were between 16 to 36. They were given treatment on the site and others were rushed to the hospital. Authorities have discovered 50 to 60 shell casings, indicating the use of multiple firearms. As per Story, the incident seems to have ignited from a clash between two hostile groups.
Among the people who lost their lives were two men aged between 18 and 19 and a 16-year-old boy. Around eleven victims were taken to an area hospital or the University Medical Center in El Paso. As per the latest report, many people are still in critical condition. Police have not released the identity of the victims. The investigation is currently being conducted by law enforcement agencies, including ATF and FBI.
Chief Story has termed the shooting a ”horrendous senseless act” and has also criticised the disregard for law and order. He accepted that illegal car gatherings at Young Park are not unusual and accepted that because of staff shortage, ”no units were available for most of the night,” as quoted by the Associated Press.
City Councilor and Governor calls for accountability
City Councilor Johana Bencomo also shared deep sorrow on the incident, writing, ”A tragedy like this feels like a nightmare just waiting to come true.” Mayor Eric Enriquez appealed to the community to unite, stating, ”We need to stand strong. We need to come together.”
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham also expressed a similar sentiment, blaming legislative inaction for limiting public safety reforms. ”We don’t have sufficient tools,” she mentioned. ”The number of firearms showing up in schools, parks, and public spaces must end.”
As for now, the park is currently closed as investigators are probing the tragedy.
(With inputs from Associated Press)