The timeline
According to reports, the gunman was seen walking into the casino’s parking lot toward valet services. He then brandished a handgun that initially malfunctioned before he was able to open fire indiscriminately into a nearby crowd.
The suspect then fled before they encountered an armed casino security guard nearby. The two exchanged gunfire, causing the suspect to flee again.
The suspect then shot and killed a driver in the parking lot before they were located by police less than three minutes after the shooting was first reported.
During the shootout with police, the gunman fired at multiple officers and struck a patrol vehicle. Multiple officers returned fire, and the suspect was taken to the hospital in critical condition after sustaining at least one gunshot wound.
The suspect had several magazines of ammunition with him when he was apprehended. A connection between him and the victims has not and is not expected to be established.
“We have no reason to believe there's a connection between any of the victims and the suspect,” said Sparks Police Department Chief Chris Crawforth. “And we have no known motive by the suspect.”
Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo (R) confirmed that he and his office were aware of the situation and sent prayers for everyone involved.
“While we wait for more information, please join me and Donna in praying for the victims and their families and for our brave first responders,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The tragic details
The suspect’s identity still has not been released. Despite six people being shot and three passing away from their injuries, Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve said the situation could have been worse.
“There was incredible, swift action that took place,” Schieve said, who noted the suspect was prevented from entering the casino and continuing their shooting spree inside.
Three people were treated with minor injuries at the scene but did not require hospitalization.
One of the victims was grazed by a bullet on their pinky finger. Another was injured while fleeing the scene, and a third was treated for severe anxiety.
An officer was also injured from what was believed to be glass fragments, Nance confirmed.
“We are heartbroken by the senseless violence that occurred in our parking area earlier today,” Grand Sierra Casino said in a statement on Monday. “Our thoughts are with the victims and all those affected by this tragic incident.”
The casino is just five miles away from the airport off of I-580. It has 80,000 square feet of gaming space, nearly 2,000 hotel rooms and suites, and 12 restaurants spread across 27 floors.
