Last Updated on 2025-07-28 by Debrah Sanders
Two Dead, Three Injured in Morning Shooting at Reno’s Grand Sierra Resort
RENO, Nevada — A gunman opened fire outside the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno on Monday morning, killing two people and injuring at least three others before being taken into custody by police in what authorities are calling a tragic act of senseless violence.
The shooting occurred around 7:25 a.m. PDT in the valet area outside the popular Northern Nevada resort and casino. According to law enforcement sources, the suspect was seen pacing the parking lot of the Grand Sierra Resort for about 45 minutes before the shooting.
The gunman initially opened fire, but their gun jammed. Once he cleared the jam, he resumed shooting, a law enforcement official briefed on the incident told CNN.
Reno police responded to reports of an active shooter and arrived on scene within 2½ minutes of receiving the initial calls for help. “Officers immediately located the suspect at which time an officer involved shooting occurred,” the Reno Police Department said in a statement. The suspect was wounded and transported to a local hospital, where they remain in custody.
Eyewitness Accounts Paint Chaotic Scene Leaving the Community in Shock
Resort guest Michael Sisco was preparing to leave his room when he heard what he described as “unmistakable gun shots” in “rapid succession”. Looking out his window, Sisco saw people running and witnessed one person who appeared to be shot stumble and crawl to a nearby car before laying down on the ground.
Guests were startled by a spray of gunfire that could be heard from their rooms inside the resort, according to police reports. Following the shooting, an announcement over the resort intercom warned of “an active law enforcement incident outside” and informed guests, “You are safe inside”.
The resort later sent a text message to guests stating: “We currently have a law enforcement situation on property which has been contained. We apologize for any inconvenience as we continue to resolve the situation”.
The community appears to be rallying around the victims and their families while grappling with the reality that such violence can occur anywhere
Deadly Shooting at Grand Sierra Casino Leaves 2 Dead
Confusion Over Initial Casualty Count at the Casino
Initial reports from authorities created confusion about the exact number of casualties. Northern Nevada District Health Officer Dr. Chad Kingsley told CNN two people were found dead and three were taken to a hospital, while multiple news outlets reported at least two people were killed and three others hospitalized.
However, Reno police spokesperson Chris Johnson dismissed both tolls as inaccurate, but declined to provide information on injuries.
Renown Regional, a local health system, confirmed its emergency department received several patients with gunshot wounds early Monday morning. The suspect, an adult man, was also injured and taken to a hospital following the officer-involved shooting.
Investigation of the Reno Casino Shooting Continues
Police Chief Kathryn Nance told reporters that officers found several victims with gunshot wounds and other injuries, immediately providing first aid and medical treatment. The incident remained contained to the exterior valet area, with no injuries reported inside the casino building itself.
The gunman’s motive is still unknown, and investigators are speaking to the suspect. The victims do not appear to be connected, according to law enforcement officials.
“There is no known continuing threat to the public,” police emphasized in their statement.
Resort Lockdown and Response
The Grand Sierra Resort, one of Reno’s most recognizable landmarks and among the tallest buildings in the city, was placed on lockdown as emergency responders flooded the scene. Multiple ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles responded to assist with the casualties.
The resort entrance remained closed at 10 a.m. local time, though guests were allowed to leave from a different exit. The entire valet parking area was cordoned off as investigators processed the crime scene.
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Official Response from Reno Mayor, Hillary Schieve
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve expressed her condolences in a statement posted to social media, thanking first responders for their quick action. “My heart goes out to everyone who has been impacted by the tragic shooting incident at the Grand Sierra Resort this morning,” she said. “I want to thank our region’s first responders and medical personnel for their courage and heroic efforts today.”
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, who previously served as sheriff of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department during the 2017 Route 91 Harvest Festival shooting that killed 58 people, also issued a statement. “While we wait for more information, please join Donna and me in praying for the victims and their families and for our brave first responders,” Lombardo said.
Reno council member Devon Reese called the incident “yet another act of senseless gun violence,” saying “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”.
Grand Sierra Resort and Casino’s History with Violence
The Grand Sierra Resort has unfortunately been the site of previous violence. Two men were charged last year in connection with a fatal shooting of a guest at the resort in January 2024, highlighting ongoing security concerns at the popular gaming destination.
State authorities and Washoe County Sheriff’s deputies assisted Reno police at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing, with police urging the public to continue avoiding the area while they complete their work.
This is a developing story as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. A press conference scheduled for 3 p.m. PT is expected to provide additional details about the victims and the ongoing investigation. Our casino news team will keep you updated as more information comes out.
