Three Dead in Early-Morning Reno Casino Shooting

Tragedy Unfolds at Reno Casino

At least three people lost their lives and several others were injured when a gunman opened fire early Monday outside a resort and casino in Reno, Nevada. The incident occurred near the Grand Sierra Resort, where law enforcement officials reported that the suspect was involved in a series of violent acts that left multiple victims in critical condition.

According to police from the neighboring city of Sparks, those killed included visitors attending a bachelor party and a local resident who was driving nearby. The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Dakota Hawver, was shot by Reno police and taken into custody for medical treatment. He remains in critical condition at the hospital.

Details of the Shooting

Investigators allege that Hawver first targeted five individuals in the valet area, killing two of them—Justin Aguila and Andrew Canepa, both 33 years old and residents of Southern California. These men were visiting Reno for a bachelor party and were shot from behind while waiting for a ride to the airport.

The third fatality was 66-year-old Angel Martinez, a Reno resident who was ambushed while driving through the casino parking lot. He was shot multiple times by the suspect. Two other individuals who were injured are currently hospitalized but are expected to recover fully.

Despite the tragic events, authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting. Hawver has no known criminal history or documented mental health issues. It is unclear what charges he will face, as details about potential legal actions have not been released.

Community Response and Vigil

In the wake of the tragedy, a multifaith candlelight vigil honoring the victims will be held Wednesday evening at the Unity Center of Reno. This event aims to bring the community together in mourning and support for the families affected by the incident.

How the Shooting Unfolded

According to a law enforcement official briefed on the incident, the suspect was seen pacing the parking lot of the resort for approximately 45 minutes before the shooting began. The suspect then entered the resort’s valet area and started firing his weapon. During the initial attack, the firearm malfunctioned, but the suspect was able to make it operational and fired multiple shots at a group of people.

Five individuals were shot in the valet area, with one dying at the scene and another later declared dead at a hospital. After the initial gunfire, the suspect fled through the parking lot, where he encountered a resort security guard. The suspect shot at the guard, who returned fire. As the suspect continued to flee, he shot a driver in the parking lot, resulting in the death of that individual.

Reno police arrived at the scene within two minutes of receiving the report and found the suspect in the parking lot. The suspect began firing at officers, striking a patrol vehicle. Reno police officers responded by firing their weapons, which resulted in the suspect being wounded.

Investigation and Aftermath

Because the shooting involved Reno police officers, Sparks police will take the lead in investigating the entire incident. Six Reno police officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, following standard policy.

Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance expressed her condolences for the victims' families and emphasized the importance of safety in public spaces. She praised the bravery and rapid response of the officers involved, stating that their actions helped prevent further harm.

Guest Accounts and Resort Response

Guests at the resort described hearing "unmistakable gunshots" in rapid succession. One guest, Michael Sisco, witnessed people running and saw an individual who appeared to be shot crawling to a car. Following the incident, the resort issued an announcement warning guests of an active law enforcement situation and advising them to remain inside.

Photos taken by Sisco showed emergency vehicles, including an ambulance, fire truck, and police cars, outside the casino. The resort entrance was closed off, and the entire valet parking area was roped off. However, guests were allowed to exit through a different entrance.

The resort leadership expressed gratitude for the swift and courageous response of its security team and the Reno Police Department. No resort workers were injured during the incident.

Community Reaction

Reno City Council member Devon Reese condemned the incident as another act of senseless gun violence. He expressed his sorrow for the victims and their families, emphasizing that Reno, like many communities, is not immune to the national epidemic of gun violence.