Las Cruces, a peaceful desert city in New Mexico (USA), was rocked by a horrific gunfight on the night of March 21 (local time) at Youth Park, killing 3 people and injuring 15 others.
According to the police, the incident originated from an argument between two groups at an illegal car show, attracting about 200 attendees. When police and firefighters arrived at 10pm, the scene was a chaotic scene with screams and many people hit by bullets.
Police chief Jeremy Story said that 50-60 bullet shells were found at the scene, showing that many shooters were involved in this shooting. The victims were aged between 16 and 36, of which 3 people died, including 1 16-year-old boy and 2 18, 19 year-old men.
One of the worrying factors was the lack of police manpower on the night of the incident. Mr. Story admitted that due to the shortage of staff, no unit was present at the park for most of the evening.
Las Cruces police are currently working with the FBI, New Mexico State Police and other federal agencies to investigate. The authorities called on people to provide videos and information to identify the suspect.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham expressed his anger and disappointment that the public safety bills have not been fully passed before the end of the legislative session.
Ms. Grisham emphasized: "We do not have enough tools to control this situation. The number of weapons appearing in parks, schools, churches, supermarkets and streets must be controlled.
Meanwhile, the Las Cruces City Council and the state Senate observed a minute of silence for the victims.
The police are still blocking the scene for investigation. Locals were shocked by the incident, many people questioned whether Las Cruces was still a safe place.
