Scenes of Chaos and Heroism Inside the Gym

Multiple gymgoers have since come forward to recount the moments of terror inside the facility. The Las Vegas Athletic Club was bustling with patrons during peak early afternoon hours when the gunfire began.

“I was on the treadmill when I heard the first shot. It echoed through the whole floor,” said Jasmine Bell, a witness who narrowly escaped unharmed. “People just started running. I saw someone collapse in front of the weight room. It was horrible.”

Others spoke of quick-thinking staff members who ushered people into offices, bathrooms, and locker rooms to hide. Some off-duty law enforcement personnel and military veterans inside the gym reportedly helped control the scene, assist victims, and provide guidance until police arrived.

“I didn’t even know who was shooting at first,” said Derek Wallace, a U.S. Army veteran and LVAC member. “But instinct kicked in. We got people down, told them to stay quiet, and waited. It felt like hours, but it was just minutes.”

Two Victims Confirmed Deceased; Names Withheld

As the building was secured and emergency medical teams entered, two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have refrained from releasing their names until their families have been notified, in accordance with standard procedure. Autopsies are currently underway with the Clark County Coroner’s Office, and further details on their identities and relationship to the shooter, if any, are expected to be released in the coming days.

In a statement Friday evening, LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed the fatalities and expressed condolences to the victims’ families:

“Today, our city experienced a tragic act of violence that took the lives of two innocent people and injured several more. We are working relentlessly to determine what led to this senseless act and to bring justice to those affected. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone who witnessed this horrific event.”

Injured Victims: Hospitalizations and Recovery Efforts

At least five additional individuals were reported injured in the shooting, including both gunshot wounds and injuries sustained during the chaotic evacuation. They were transported to University Medical Center (UMC) and Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. Medical personnel at both facilities have stated that they are doing everything possible to stabilize and support the victims.

As of this writing:

• Two victims are in critical condition and undergoing surgery.
• One victim is in stable condition and expected to recover.
• Two others sustained minor injuries and have since been released.

Hospital representatives have praised the rapid response of emergency crews and credited gymgoers for their help in providing first aid and alerting 911 with accurate information.

Shooter in Custody: Investigation Into Motive Underway

The suspect, now in LVMPD custody, has not yet been publicly identified. Police have confirmed that he acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. Authorities are currently interviewing the individual and reviewing digital evidence, including phone records, social media, and surveillance footage from the gym and surrounding businesses.

While the shooter’s motive remains under investigation, initial reports suggest that the attack may have been targeted — possibly directed at a specific individual or group — rather than a random act of violence.

“We believe the suspect may have had prior contact with at least one of the victims,” Sheriff McMahill said during the briefing. “However, we are not prepared to speculate further until we have confirmed information.”

LVAC Closes Temporarily; Community Offers Support

The Las Vegas Athletic Club issued a statement announcing the temporary closure of its North Rainbow Boulevard location while investigations continue. The company expressed shock and heartbreak over the incident and confirmed it will provide mental health resources and grief counseling for members, staff, and witnesses affected by the shooting.

“We are devastated by the events of today,” the statement read. “Our hearts are with the victims and their families. The safety of our members and team is our top priority, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement.”

Local nonprofits and city agencies have also stepped in to provide crisis counseling and emotional support to those impacted. A community vigil is being organized for Sunday evening outside the LVAC facility to honor the lives lost and support those in recovery.

Las Vegas Reacts: A City’s Resilience Tested Again

The shooting has reignited painful memories for a city still healing from the Route 91 Harvest Festival massacre in 2017, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. For many, Friday’s incident underscored the ongoing urgency of addressing gun violence, mental health, and public safety.

Mayor Carolyn Goodman responded swiftly with a statement:

“This is yet another heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance in our public spaces. We stand united as a city in grief, but also in determination — to find answers, to hold those responsible accountable, and to support one another.”

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo echoed those sentiments, calling for calm and pledging support to LVMPD and the victims’ families.

Call for Public Assistance and Vigilance

While the suspect is in custody, investigators are continuing to gather evidence and are urging anyone who was inside or near the LVAC at the time of the shooting to come forward. They are particularly interested in:

• Eyewitness accounts
• Cell phone videos or photos
• Dashcam footage from vehicles in the parking lot
• Any prior contact with the suspect

Tips can be submitted to the LVMPD Homicide Section at 702-828-3521, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555. Tips leading to critical evidence may be eligible for a cash reward.

Conclusion: Mourning, Accountability, and a Call for Change

The tragic events of May 16, 2025, at the Las Vegas Athletic Club have left an indelible mark on the city. As families grieve, victims recover, and investigators work to uncover the motive behind this horrific act, the community is coming together in sorrow — and in strength.

With two lives lost, others wounded, and countless more traumatized, the focus now shifts to justice, healing, and prevention. The LVMPD continues to work around the clock to provide answers and ensure that this type of violence has no place in the places where people come to better themselves, gather, and find peace.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department at 702-828-3521 or Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.

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