On the morning of July 28, 2025, a devastating mass shooting unfolded at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, leaving three people dead and three others injured. Among the victims was Andrew Canepa, a devoted father whose life was tragically cut short in the senseless act of violence.

The incident occurred around 7:25 a.m. in the valet area of the resort. According to authorities, an unidentified adult male suspect entered the resort’s parking lot, approached the valet area, and opened fire with a handgun on a group of people. The gun initially malfunctioned, but the suspect managed to fire multiple rounds, striking five individuals. One victim died at the scene, and four others were transported to a local hospital, where a second victim succumbed to their injuries. Two of the surviving victims remain in critical condition, while one has been treated and released.

As the suspect fled through the parking lot, he encountered a sixth victim driving through the area and fatally shot them inside their vehicle. Andrew Canepa, one of the three fatalities, was reportedly on his way home to pick up his six-year-old son, Kayden, when he was killed.

Andrew was remembered by loved ones as a loving and dedicated father who worked tirelessly to support his son and celebrate every milestone in his life. His untimely death has left an immense void, particularly for young Kayden, who now faces the heartbreaking loss of his father. In response, a family friend launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Kayden’s future, aiming to provide resources for counseling, mental health support, educational and extracurricular expenses, and household stability. “Andrew loved Kayden more than anything in the world,” the organizer wrote. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping us honor Andrew’s memory by surrounding Kayden with love, security, and hope for the future.”

The suspect was located by resort security and Reno Police within four to five minutes of the initial 911 call. A confrontation ensued, during which the suspect exchanged gunfire with a Grand Sierra Resort security guard, who was unharmed, and then fired at police, striking a patrol vehicle. Multiple officers returned fire, wounding the suspect, who was taken into custody and remains hospitalized in critical condition. His identity has not been released. One officer sustained minor injuries, likely from glass fragments, but no officers were shot.

The Sparks Police Department is leading the investigation into both the officer-involved shooting and the broader incident, with assistance from the Reno Police Department, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, and Nevada State Police. Authorities have stated there is no known connection between the suspect and the victims, and the motive for the attack remains under investigation. Officials have cautioned that the investigation will be thorough and may take time to complete.

The Grand Sierra Resort issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy: “We are heartbroken by the senseless violence that occurred in our parking area earlier today. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those affected by this tragic incident. We are incredibly grateful for the swift and courageous response by our armed security team, whose immediate actions helped prevent further harm. We also want to thank the Reno Police Department for their rapid assistance and coordination, which was instrumental in quickly eliminating the threat and protecting lives.” The resort remains fully operational, though portions of the property, including the northwest valet and west parking lot, may remain closed during the investigation.

Reno City Councilman Devon Reese expressed the community’s grief, stating, “My heart breaks for the victims, their families, and our entire community. Reno is strong — but we are not immune to the epidemic of gun violence gripping this nation.” Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve also shared condolences, saying, “My heart goes out to everyone who has been impacted by the tragic shooting incident at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno this morning. While it is very early in the investigation and details are scarce, I want to thank our region’s first responders and medical personnel for their courage and heroic efforts today.”

Law enforcement is urging anyone with information or video footage related to the incident to contact the Sparks Police Department at (775) 353-2231 or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. As the investigation continues, the Reno community mourns the loss of Andrew Canepa and the other victims, coming together to support those affected by this horrific act of violence.