Tragedy Strikes at Las Vegas Athletic Club: A Closer Look at the Shooting Incident
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — In a shocking turn of events, the North Las Vegas community was shaken by a shooting at the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) that took place on Friday. Authorities responded promptly to the scene, where police and emergency services were faced with a chaotic situation involving an armed individual and gunfire.
The Incident Unfolds
Daniel Ortega, a 34-year-old active member of the gym, allegedly turned a space meant for fitness and wellness into a site of horror. Armed with a rifle, Ortega reportedly fired 24 rounds inside the LVAC located at the corner of Rainbow Boulevard and Vegas Drive. Eyewitness reports from neighbors on Carroll Street indicated a significant police presence, highlighting the urgency of the situation as it unfolded.
Tragically, Ortega’s rampage resulted in the death of Edgar Quinonez, a dedicated employee of LVAC for 15 years. Investigators have not found any known connection between the two men, adding an unsettling layer to the unfolding narrative. “It’s hard to understand why something like this would happen,” offered one community member, encapsulating the shock felt by many.
Police Response and Aftermath
As Ortega attempted to exit the gym, his rifle malfunctioned, creating a crucial moment for law enforcement. In a rapid response to the threat, police officers engaged with Ortega, who was subsequently shot. During the chaos, three additional individuals sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment. Reports on their conditions remain pending, but the community holds its breath, hoping for a swift recovery.
Community Reactions and Initial Investigations
In the wake of the shooting, members of the community expressed their dismay and confusion. News 3 reached out to Ortega’s residence for comments, receiving a terse response from a woman who answered the door. When informed of the journalists’ identity, she promptly declined to comment before closing the door, leaving many questions unanswered.
Local residents like Pedro Velazquez shared their experiences with Ortega, recalling having seen him in the neighborhood but not knowing him personally. “I didn’t know the guy, but I’ve seen him a couple of times,” Velazquez noted, representing a common sentiment among those who live nearby. Another resident, Waldo Armenta, mentioned how the police established a perimeter, even deploying drones as part of their investigative efforts.
Background on the Suspect
Public records reveal some of Ortega’s past legal troubles, including arrests for DUI and drug trafficking in 2013. Documents indicate that he was sentenced to community service and mandated to undergo substance abuse counseling, both of which he completed. This history raises significant questions about the factors that may have contributed to his actions on that fateful day.
A Motive Still Under Investigation
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials have yet to identify a clear motive behind Ortega’s deadly outburst. The lack of connection between him and Quinonez remains perplexing, prompting many to wonder what could have led to such a tragic and violent event. Investigators are diligently working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting, hoping to shed light on what drove Ortega to commit this act of violence.
In the coming days, as more information becomes available, the Las Vegas community will continue to process this tragic incident. Residents are left grappling with their emotions, navigating the immediate fear and sadness that accompanies such violence in a place where many seek wellness and fitness. While the investigation unfolds, the lasting impact of this shooting will be felt throughout the vibrant community of North Las Vegas.