The serene atmosphere of Reno, Nevada, was shattered recently by a horrific shooting incident at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, leading to a somber victim identification process. Authorities have now released the names of those tragically killed, shedding light on the devastating impact of the senseless act and the ongoing police investigation into the circumstances.
Among the victims were two friends from Southern California, Justin Aguilar and Andrew Canepa, both 33, who had traveled to Reno for a bachelor party. Their lives were abruptly cut short as they waited for a ride at the resort’s valet area, reportedly ambushed from behind by the gunman, turning a celebratory trip into an unimaginable tragedy.
Andrew Canepa, a co-owner of Side Street Cafe in Newbury Park, was remembered as a kind soul, a dedicated business owner, and a loving father to his young son. Friends and community members expressed profound shock and grief, with Ventura County Supervisor Jeff Gorell highlighting Canepa’s warm presence and positive impact, leaving a void deeply felt by many.
The third victim identified was 66-year-old Angel Martinez, a long-time Reno resident who had dedicated over three decades to working in local restaurants and casinos. Martinez was fatally shot while driving through the parking lot, an innocent bystander caught in the sudden violence. His family has shared that he was a beloved father and grandfather, known for his lifelong love of cooking.
The tragic events unfolded just before 7:30 a.m. on Monday morning when an armed individual began firing at bystanders in the valet parking area. The assailant, wielding a 9 mm handgun, reportedly fired approximately 80 rounds, utilizing multiple magazines, even after the weapon initially malfunctioned, resulting in three fatalities and three injured individuals, two of whom remain hospitalized but are expected to recover.
Rapid response from the Reno Police Department saw officers arrive on the scene within minutes, locating the suspect on the property. A subsequent confrontation ensued, with the gunman allegedly firing at officers and striking a police vehicle. Multiple officers then discharged their weapons, leading to the suspect’s apprehension, who remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Police have identified the suspect as Dakota Hawver, a 26-year-old Reno resident. Investigators confirmed that Hawver legally purchased the 9 mm handgun two years prior and acquired ammunition more recently. Despite the gravity of the attack, authorities have indicated that Hawver has no prior criminal history or known mental health issues, adding to the perplexing nature of the incident.
The motive behind this horrific Grand Sierra Resort shooting remains elusive, with investigators stating they have found no clear links or connections between the gunman and any of the victims. The police investigation, led by the Sparks Police Department and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, is actively ongoing as they seek answers to this baffling act of gun violence.
