On Monday, July 28, 2025, a devastating shooting outside the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, claimed the lives of three men and left others injured. The incident, which unfolded in the early morning hours, has shocked the community and left investigators searching for answers.

Among the victims were Justin Aguila and Andrew Canepa, both 33-year-old residents of Southern California. The two men were in Reno celebrating a bachelor party with friends when they were fatally shot from behind while waiting in the casino’s valet area for a ride to the airport. Aguila is survived by his parents, siblings, and fiancée, while Canepa, a co-owner of Side Street Café in Newbury Park, California, leaves behind a 6-year-old son. The café, a beloved local spot, was known for Canepa’s warm presence and culinary talent. Friends described him as a devoted father and a kind soul who lit up every room. GoFundMe campaigns have been established to support the families of both Aguila and Canepa during this difficult time.
The third victim, 66-year-old Reno resident Angel Martinez, was killed while driving through the resort’s parking lot. Authorities say Martinez was ambushed by the suspect, who was hiding behind another vehicle before firing multiple shots. Martinez, a lifelong Reno resident from a large family of eleven siblings, had a passion for cooking and spent over three decades working in the city’s restaurants and casinos. His niece, Becka Gonzalez, noted that his greatest joy was being a father and grandfather to his son Michael and grandson.

The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Reno resident Dakota Hawver, was shot by police during a confrontation and remains in critical condition. Investigators have found no connection between Hawver and the victims or the Grand Sierra Resort. The motive for the attack remains unclear. Hawver, who has no prior criminal or documented mental health history, used a legally purchased 9mm handgun and fired approximately 80 rounds from multiple magazines during the rampage.

Three others were injured in the shooting. One person was treated and released, while two remain hospitalized but are expected to make a full recovery. Their identities have not been disclosed by authorities, though some reports suggest two of the injured were part of the same Southern California bachelor party group, identified by family and friends as Matt Sitler and Dylan McLean.

The shooting began shortly before 7:30 a.m. when Hawver approached the valet area and pointed his handgun at a group of people. The weapon initially malfunctioned, but he quickly resolved the issue and opened fire, striking five individuals. He then fled through the parking lot, exchanging gunfire with a casino security guard who was unharmed. Hawver continued his attack, fatally shooting Martinez before engaging in a shootout with Reno police officers, who struck and apprehended him. Six Reno police officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, per department policy, and one officer sustained minor injuries, likely from glass fragments, but has since been released.

The Grand Sierra Resort, one of Reno’s largest hotel and casino complexes, was briefly locked down but has since reopened. Visitors expressed shock at the violence, noting the resort’s reputation as a safe destination. Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance called the tragedy “horrific for any community to endure,” emphasizing that violence in public spaces is unacceptable. Sparks Police Chief Chris Crawforth credited the rapid response of law enforcement and the presence of a nearby fire station with preventing further loss of life.

Community leaders, including Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, and Senator Cortez Masto, expressed their condolences and gratitude to first responders for their swift actions. GoFundMe campaigns for Martinez, Canepa, and Aguila continue to gather support, reflecting the profound impact these men had on their communities. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the reasons behind this senseless act of violence that has left Reno and beyond in mourning.