Las Cruces Park Shooting Leaves Multiple Casualties

A peaceful Friday evening in Las Cruces, New Mexico, was shattered by gunfire as a mass shooting unfolded at Young Park, leaving the community in shock and authorities scrambling to piece together the events.

Photo by Edith Montero / KTSM

The incident, which occurred shortly after 10 p.m., has resulted in multiple casualties and injuries, though the exact number remains unconfirmed.

Las Cruces Police Department responded swiftly to reports of gunshots at the popular community park located at 850 S Walnut St. Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic scene with several gunshot victims. Emergency services rushed to transport the wounded to local hospitals, including the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, highlighting the severity of the situation.

As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement agencies have cast a wide net in their search for the perpetrator or perpetrators. The Las Cruces Police Department is collaborating with multiple agencies, including the New Mexico State Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This coordinated effort underscores the gravity of the crime and the determination to bring those responsible to justice.

Eyewitness accounts have begun to emerge, with one family reportedly claiming that a relative lost their life in the shooting. However, officials have yet to confirm any fatalities as they work diligently to verify information and notify next of kin.

The area surrounding Young Park has been temporarily closed to traffic, particularly Walnut Street south of Lohman Avenue. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the vicinity as the investigation continues. This precaution is crucial for preserving the integrity of the crime scene and ensuring the safety of both investigators and civilians.

As the community grapples with this tragedy, Las Cruces Police have established a hotline at (575) 526-0795 for individuals seeking information about loved ones or those who may have witnessed the event. Law enforcement officials are appealing to the public for any information that could aid in the investigation and lead to the apprehension of the suspects.

This devastating incident comes just days after Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story addressed another shooting in the city, highlighting a concerning trend of gun violence that has now escalated to a mass casualty event7. As the city mourns and seeks answers, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families while working tirelessly to prevent such tragedies in the future.