In a devastating act of violence that has left the Reno community reeling, a gunman opened fire at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino on Monday morning, July 28, 2025, discharging approximately 80 rounds in a rampage that killed three people and injured three others. The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Dakota Hawver of Reno, was fatally wounded during a shootout with police and died overnight, leaving investigators searching for answers about his motive.

#### The Incident
According to the Sparks Police Department, which is leading the investigation, Hawver arrived on foot at the casino’s valet area just before 7:30 a.m. Armed with a legally purchased 9mm handgun and multiple magazines, he began firing at a group of people after his weapon initially malfunctioned but was quickly made operable. Sparks Police Chief Chris Crawforth reported that Hawver fired around 80 shots, targeting victims indiscriminately in the valet area before fleeing through the parking lot.

Hawver, a Reno resident, had no prior criminal record or documented mental health issues, according to authorities. He legally purchased the handgun two years ago and acquired the ammunition recently. A court docket from Washoe County revealed Hawver was involved in a child support case filed a year ago, with the most recent entry dated the Friday before the shooting, though its relevance to the incident remains unclear.

#### Victims and Impact
The shooting claimed the lives of three individuals: Justin Aguila, 33, and Andrew Canepa, 33, both Southern California residents, and Angel Martinez, 66, a Reno/Sparks resident. Aguila and Canepa were in Reno for a bachelor party with friends and were shot from behind while waiting in the valet area for a ride to the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Martinez, a beloved father and grandfather with a lifelong passion for cooking, was driving through the parking lot when Hawver, hiding behind a vehicle, ambushed and shot him multiple times.

Three others were injured in the attack. Two victims, identified by family and friends as Matt Sitler and Dylan McLean from the Southern California group, were hospitalized but are expected to make a full recovery. A third injured person was treated and released. The Grand Sierra Resort confirmed that none of its employees were harmed during the incident.

#### Confrontation and Police Response
After the initial shooting in the valet area, Hawver fled through the parking lot and fired at an armed casino security guard, who returned fire in self-defense. Hawver then shot and killed Martinez before encountering Reno police officers, who arrived within two to three minutes of the initial 7:25 a.m. emergency call. Hawver fired at the officers, striking a patrol vehicle, prompting six Reno officers to return fire, critically wounding him. One officer sustained minor injuries, likely from glass fragments, and was treated and released.

Due to the involvement of Reno officers in the shooting, the Sparks Police Department has taken the lead in the investigation, with assistance from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. The six officers involved have been placed on standard administrative leave and provided with wellness and peer support resources.

#### Investigation and Unanswered Questions
Investigators have found no connection between Hawver, the Grand Sierra Resort, or the victims, and his motive remains unknown. “The lack of a clear motive makes this incident particularly disturbing,” a Sparks Police Department spokesperson stated. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage, conducting interviews, and analyzing evidence to piece together the events. Sparks police are seeking witnesses and have urged anyone with information to contact detectives at (775) 353-2225.

A multifaith candlelight vigil to honor the victims was held Wednesday evening at the Unity Center of Reno, reflecting the community’s collective grief and resolve to heal.

#### Community Reaction
The shooting has shaken Reno, a popular tourist destination near Lake Tahoe, known for its vibrant resort district. Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve and Police Chief Kathryn Nance expressed profound condolences, with Nance stating, “Tragedies like this are horrific for any community to endure. Violence is not acceptable, especially in our public spaces.” Reno City Councilmember Devon Reese echoed this sentiment, writing on social media, “Reno is strong — but we are not immune to the epidemic of gun violence gripping this nation. We cannot accept this as normal.”

The Grand Sierra Resort, a prominent venue with nearly 2,000 rooms and a sprawling casino floor, condemned the “senseless violence” and praised its security team and first responders for their swift actions. The resort remains fully operational, with no ongoing threat to the public, and is providing support to affected guests and staff.
This tragic event highlights the unpredictable nature of gun violence and underscores the need for community vigilance and robust law enforcement response. As Reno mourns, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and seeking justice through a thorough investigation.