RENO, Nev. (AP) — A tragic shooting unfolded on Monday outside the Grand Sierra Resort, the largest casino in Reno, Nevada, resulting in three fatalities and three injuries. Authorities reported that the gunman opened fire at around 7:30 a.m. before being shot and apprehended by police. The suspect's connection to the victims remains unclear, and it is unknown whether he was a guest or an employee at the prominent venue.
The Grand Sierra Resort, known for hosting notable events including concerts and political rallies, is located just northeast of Lake Tahoe and attracts numerous tourists during the summer months. Police were actively investigating the motive behind the shooting as two of the injured individuals were reported to be in critical condition, while a third victim was treated and released from the hospital.
The incident began when the gunman approached the casino-hotel’s valet parking area, brandishing a handgun. Witnesses indicated that his weapon malfunctioned initially, but he quickly managed to shoot at a group of people. Following this, he fled on foot through the parking lot, engaging with an armed security guard who was stationed nearby. The suspect fired shots at the guard, who retaliated, but the gunman continued to escape.
During his flight, the assailant shot at another individual in a vehicle, killing the driver. Police officers arrived on the scene within three minutes of the first shots, leading to an exchange of gunfire where the suspect was struck by returning fire. The shooter remains in critical condition, while the police confirmed the presence of multiple firearm magazines on his person.
Eyewitness Michael Sisco recounted the terrifying moment he heard gunfire from his hotel room, just as he was preparing to go to the valet. He described a scene of chaos, with people screaming and fleeing, and felt a deep sense of shock realizing how close he had been to the unfolding violence. Similarly, Christina Martinez, who was moments away from getting coffee, experienced a panic attack as she learned of the active shooter situation just outside the lobby.
In addition to the main victims, three more individuals were treated for minor injuries at the casino: one person suffered a bullet graze to their finger, another was treated for severe anxiety, and a third sustained injuries while fleeing the scene. One police officer also sustained injuries, likely from flying glass fragments during the incident.
Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance condemned the shooting, describing it as a horrific tragedy for the community, while Mayor Hillary Schieve praised the swift response of law enforcement that prevented further loss of life within the casino itself. The Grand Sierra Resort, which claims to have the largest casino floor in northern Nevada and boasts nearly 2,000 hotel rooms, expressed its condolences to the victims and issued a statement condemning the senseless violence that occurred on its premises.
This incident echoes a previous tragedy in January 2024 at the same resort, involving a fatal shooting of another guest, underscoring the ongoing challenges related to gun violence and community safety in the area. As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the aftermath of this distressing event that has left a lasting impact on both the victims and the broader Reno area.
