A Shocking Incident on the Las Vegas Strip
In a startling event that has captured the attention of many, a private security guard in Las Vegas was involved in a shooting that has raised concerns about security protocols and firearm policies within private security firms. The incident took place on August 30, shortly after midnight, near a bustling bar at the Grand Bazaar Shops close to Flamingo Road.
The Shooter and the Victim
Deangelo Sneed, a 20-year-old Las Vegas resident and officer with Securitas, has been charged with multiple offenses related to the shooting. Documents reveal that he allegedly shot a tourist visiting from Chicago in the hip during an altercation. Witnesses have described the scene, noting that video surveillance captured a physical confrontation between Sneed and the victim just moments before the shots were fired.
Events Leading to the Shooting
According to police reports, Sneed claimed that he was assaulted by multiple individuals, stating he “shot the [victim] to stop him.” However, this assertion is still under investigation, and the details surrounding the confrontation remain unclear. After the shooting, police located Sneed nearby and discovered a firearm on the driver’s side floorboard of his car.
Weapons Protocol and Company Policy
Significantly, it has been revealed that Sneed should not have been armed during his shift. Company policy at Securitas prohibits security officers from carrying firearms, a rule intended to ensure the safety of both staff and the public. During police questioning, Sneed admitted that he did not possess a concealed carry permit and lacked any formal training in firearms handling. He acknowledged that he decided to bring his gun to work that night, disregarding established protocols.
Supervisory Insights
A supervisor at Securitas who works closely with Sneed emphasized that the role of security personnel at the Grand Bazaar Shops is to simply “talk and ask,” rather than engage in armed confrontations. This incident has raised serious questions about the hiring practices and training programs within the company, as well as the overall security measures in place in such a high-traffic area as the Las Vegas Strip.
Legal Ramifications
As a result of the shooting, Sneed faces serious charges including battery with the use of a deadly weapon causing substantial bodily harm and carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. His legal troubles are compounded by the fact that he was not in custody as of the following Monday, although he has been ordered to wear an ankle monitor and avoid possessing any weapons while awaiting his preliminary hearing, scheduled for December 9.
The Ongoing Investigation
As more details emerge, authorities and the public remain concerned about the implications of this incident. Questions are being raised not only about the individual actions of Sneed but also about the effectiveness of security protocols at venues frequented by tourists and locals alike.
Despite the gravity of the situation, a representative from Securitas has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the incident, leaving many uncertain about the company’s stance on firearms policies and the future of security measures in public spaces.
Community Response
The shooting has sparked a broader conversation about safety on the Las Vegas Strip, a popular destination known for its lively nightlife and numerous attractions. Visitors and residents alike are left to ponder how such incidents can be prevented in the future, especially in a city that thrives on tourism and public engagement.
This developing story continues to unfold, highlighting the need for stricter adherence to safety protocols and a comprehensive evaluation of security practices in dynamic urban environments like Las Vegas.