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Police Identify Victim and Gunman in Las Vegas Gym Shooting

Police Identify Victim and Gunman in Las Vegas Gym Shooting

A regular Thursday afternoon turned tragic at the Las Vegas Athletic Club when gunfire erupted, leaving two people dead — including the shooter — and three others injured. The incident happened around 1:30 p.m. on May 16, 2025, shaking both gymgoers and the wider community.

According to police, 34-year-old Daniel Ortega walked into the gym armed with a semi-automatic rifle. Moments later, he opened fire near the front desk. In just seconds, chaos erupted inside the building. People scrambled for safety as Ortega fired off 24 rounds before his weapon jammed. That malfunction, authorities say, likely prevented a much higher death toll.

The Victim: Remembering Edgar Quinonez

The man killed in the shooting was 31-year-old Edgar Quinonez, a beloved employee who had worked at the gym for more than 15 years. Known for his friendly attitude and deep connection with regular members, Quinonez was seen as the heart of the gym.

Police Identify Victim and Gunman in Las Vegas Gym Shooting

He was trying to escape when he was shot. Many of his coworkers and longtime members say Edgar was someone everyone trusted — always smiling, always helpful, and a fixture in the local fitness community. The Las Vegas Athletic Club released a short statement mourning the loss and promising to support Edgar’s family and staff.

Inside the Attack: What Surveillance Shows

Security footage shows Ortega entering the gym calmly and briefly speaking to staff at the front desk before pulling out a rifle. Without warning, he began firing. The front lobby quickly emptied as people fled or took cover. Police said Ortega’s rifle, an AR-15–style weapon, jammed shortly after the initial rounds, which prevented further bloodshed.

“He was fully capable of taking many more lives, but his weapon malfunctioned,” said Assistant Sheriff Jamie Prosser during a press conference. “That likely saved lives.”

Police Response and Final Moments

Police officers arrived within minutes of the first 911 calls. As Ortega tried to leave the gym, he was met by law enforcement outside. Officers ordered him to drop the weapon. When he refused and continued moving, they opened fire. Ortega was hit and later died at University Medical Center.

Body camera footage released by authorities shows the tense confrontation and the quick action by police. Their response, according to officials, prevented what could have been an even greater tragedy.

Searching for Answers: Why Did This Happen?

So far, investigators haven’t found a direct connection between Ortega and Quinonez. While Ortega was a member of the gym, officials say there’s no evidence the two men knew each other personally. Police are still digging into his background and what may have led to the attack.

Ortega had a previous criminal record, including a 2013 conviction for drug trafficking and a DUI. But there were no clear warning signs or recent incidents that pointed toward this level of violence.

Aftermath and Community Reaction

In the days since the shooting, the Las Vegas community has been left reeling. Vigils have been held for Edgar Quinonez, and tributes have poured in from friends, family, and gym members.

Many have expressed deep sadness and shock that such a violent act could happen in a place people go to better themselves and feel safe.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate, reviewing Ortega’s digital devices, social media, and other records to piece together his motive. Meanwhile, the gym remains closed to the public, with counseling services offered to staff and members affected by the traumatic event.

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