Area leaders are offering support to Las Vegas in the wake of the largest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.
At least 58 are dead and hundreds wounded after last night’s attack from the 32nd floor of a Mandalay Bay hotel room in Las Vegas. Stephen Paddock was identified as the person responsible for shooting into the crowd at the Route 91 country music festival.
Not much is known about Paddock’s motivations. He owned at least one property in Reno and is reported to have lived in Reno until 2016.
He is being identified as a resident of Mesquite in southern Nevada. His brother, Erick Paddock of Orlando, Fla., said his family is shocked.
“There is no reason we can imagine why Stephen would do something like this,” his brother said. “All we can do is send our condolences to the people who died. Just no reason, no warning.”
Community Response
Community members have issued statements of support for our southern neighbors. Those in Reno wishing to help can donate blood at United Blood Services (link below).
County Commissioner Bob Lucey:
“Should you feel compelled, one way to help assist the victims from this mass shooting incident is to donate blood at United Blood Services in Reno. We spoke with staff there this morning, and if you are interested, they are asking the community to please schedule an appointment sometime this week.”
Washoe County Schools Superintendent Traci Davis:
“I am heartbroken to hear about this terrible attack on a group of people who simply and peacefully gathered to celebrate and share the music they loved. This kind of violence goes against everything we believe in as Nevadans and Americans.
“We join hands in solidarity with our fellow citizens in committing ourselves to providing comfort wherever we can. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected by this terrible act.”
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve:
Reno is sending prayers & love @mayoroflasvegas to all @CityOfLasVegas during this terrible tragedy. #RenoPrayersLV #NevadaFamily https://t.co/kt1NdJqR8a
— Hillary Schieve (@MayorSchieve) October 2, 2017
Reno Police Deputy Chief Tom Robinson:
In response to last night’s senseless and cowardly act, Chief Soto has reached out to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Sheriff Lombardo, on behalf of the men and women of the Reno Police Department. Chief Soto offered condolences to Sheriff Lombardo and his staff and offered to provide the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department with any assistance and/or resource that the Reno Police Department may provide. We have also offered our assistance to the FBI who is assisting LVMPD.
At this time, the Reno Police Department is not involved in any aspect of the investigation. Furthermore, the Reno Police Department has not had any prior documented contacts with either the suspect in the shooting (who we’ve intentionally declined to name) or the female who the shooter has been reported to be associated with.
As is done after any active assailant incident, the Reno Police Department will review the incident in an effort to improve our own tactics and training. RPD will also evaluate safety measures that are implemented for future special events.
Governor Brian Sandoval:
“My heart and prayers go the victims and their families and friends who were brutally killed and injured by a shocking and cowardly act of senseless violence. This tragic and vicious attack on innocent people has claimed the lives of our fellow Americans and devastated hundreds of others who were simply enjoying a country music festival. I will be in Las Vegas this morning to meet with law enforcement, first responders and to console the victims and their families and friends. I ask that everyone take a moment to keep the people affected by this horrific tragedy in their thoughts and prayers.”
