Update: Names of Suspect and Victims Released in Grand Sierra Shooting

Overview of the Grand Sierra Resort Shooting

The tragic shooting at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno has left a community in shock, with the names of the victims and the suspected shooter now publicly known. The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the motive behind the attack and ensure public safety.

Victims Identified

The victims who lost their lives during the shooting have been identified as follows:

• Justin Agulia, a 33-year-old resident of Southern California.
• Andrew Canepa, also 33 years old, from Southern California.
• Angel Martinez, a 66-year-old Reno/Sparks resident.

Agulia and Canepa were in town for a bachelor party and were shot from behind while waiting in the valet area for a ride to the airport. Martinez was driving through the parking lot when he was ambushed by the suspect, who had hidden behind another vehicle. He was shot multiple times before being taken to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Two other individuals remain hospitalized but are expected to recover fully. Their identities have not been disclosed.

Suspect Identified

The suspect responsible for the shooting has been identified as Dakota Hawver, a 26-year-old Reno resident currently in critical condition. Hawver was armed with a 9mm handgun and fired approximately 80 rounds during the incident, using multiple magazines. According to investigators, Hawver legally purchased the firearm about two years ago and recently bought the ammunition.

Hawver has no prior criminal record or history of mental health issues. Authorities have not found any connections between the suspect and the victims or the Grand Sierra Resort. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.

Details of the Incident

According to police reports, the shooting began shortly before 7:25 a.m. on Monday, July 28. An unidentified white man approached the valet area outside the hotel-casino and opened fire, injuring five people. One individual died at the scene, and another was pronounced dead later at Renown Regional Medical Center.

The suspect then moved north through the parking lot, where a GSR security officer confronted him, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. Continuing north, the suspect fatally shot a person driving through the parking lot. Reno police arrived shortly after and located the suspect on the northwest side of the parking lot. The suspect fired at an officer’s vehicle, prompting multiple officers to return fire. He was eventually taken into custody and transported to the hospital, where he remained in critical condition.

Two of the victims from the valet area were also in critical condition, while one was treated and released. Police noted that the rapid response from law enforcement likely prevented further casualties. One officer sustained minor injuries, likely due to glass fragments.

Community Response and Support

In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up for Angel Martinez, one of the victims. His niece, Becka Gonzalez, shared details about his life, highlighting his decades of work in restaurants and casinos in Reno and his deep love for cooking and family. Martinez's son and grandson were described as his greatest joys.

Another GoFundMe was created for Andrew Canepa’s 6-year-old son, as Canepa was on his way home from Reno to pick up his child. Friends and family of Canepa expressed their grief, noting his significant role in the community and the impact of his loss.

Hotel and Law Enforcement Statements

The Grand Sierra Resort condemned the shooting and confirmed that no employees were injured. A representative stated that the resort is actively supporting those impacted by the incident and remains open. Sparks Police Department emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance praised the quick response of law enforcement, stating that it helped prevent additional casualties. The six officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave and provided with wellness and peer support resources.

Ongoing Investigation

Despite the release of some information, the investigation is still active, and no further details will be shared at this time. Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The community awaits more clarity as the search for answers continues.