Tragedy at Las Vegas Gym: Longtime Employee Identified in Deadly Shooting
In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the local community, a shooting at a Las Vegas gym left two people dead and several others injured. The tragic event occurred at the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) located near Rainbow Boulevard and Lake Mead Boulevard in the northwest valley on Friday afternoon. Among the deceased is 31-year-old Edgar Quinonez, a dedicated and longtime employee of the fitness center.
Victim Identified as Respected Gym Employee
The victim, Edgar Quinonez, was well-known and respected by colleagues and gym-goers alike. According to social media tributes and statements from the gym, Quinonez had been part of the LVAC family for 15 years. His contribution to the gym went beyond his duties as an employee—he was described as a source of kindness, dedication, and positivity. Many members recalled his warm presence and how he made the gym feel like a second home.
On Friday afternoon, the peaceful atmosphere of the gym was shattered when an individual opened fire inside the facility. The chaos that ensued resulted in multiple injuries and the eventual death of the gunman, who was shot by responding police officers. The gunman, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital.
Law Enforcement Responds Swiftly to Active Shooter
Metro Police officers responded quickly to the emergency. Upon arrival, they confronted the armed suspect and fatally shot him in an exchange. The entire area, including the parking lot and surrounding premises, was cordoned off for investigation. Authorities remained on-site throughout the day, securing the location and gathering evidence to piece together what led to the violence.
Three additional victims were transported to local hospitals. According to official reports, one of them remains in critical condition, while the other two sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The identities of these injured individuals have not yet been released, and their relationship to either the victim or the shooter remains under investigation.
Community Reacts to Shocking Incident
The news has deeply disturbed local residents and gym patrons. Many who frequent other LVAC branches, such as the Decatur and Tropical Parkway location, expressed their shock and sorrow. Several individuals shared that they initially thought the shooting occurred at a different branch they had previously attended, which heightened their sense of personal connection and concern.
Zachary Crowds, a local resident and gym-goer, shared his reaction to the news. Having just recently returned to his fitness routine, Crowds admitted that the shooting had deeply unsettled him. “It was a little scary,” he said. “We’ve been hit with a lot of different things recently. It really hurts because I know we’re a small town—we all know each other.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, stating that while violence has increased across the valley in recent years, they never expected it to strike in a place meant for health, community, and self-improvement. Many described the LVAC as a safe space where people came not just to exercise, but to build connections and escape everyday stress.
Questions Remain as Motive Unclear
As the investigation continues, Metro Police have yet to determine a clear motive behind the shooting. One of the most pressing questions is whether Edgar Quinonez and the unidentified gunman had any prior relationship. At this stage, authorities have not confirmed if the attack was targeted or random. Witnesses have offered varying accounts, but without definitive answers, speculation remains.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward to help in the investigation. They have also reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the community.
Remembering Edgar Quinonez
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the focus has shifted to honoring the memory of Edgar Quinonez. Tributes have poured in on social media from friends, family, coworkers, and gym members. They remember him not just as a colleague or employee, but as a person who genuinely cared for others and made a lasting impact on everyone he met.
For the LVAC community, the coming days will be marked by mourning and reflection. As people try to process the senseless violence, there is also a collective call to remain united and resilient.
This incident stands as a grim reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence and the need for continued community awareness, mental health support, and public safety vigilance. In remembering Edgar Quinonez, the community finds a way to channel their grief into compassion, honoring his legacy through shared strength and support.
