On the afternoon of Friday, May 16, 2025, the calm of an otherwise routine day in Las Vegas was shattered by a tragic act of violence at the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) located on North Rainbow Boulevard near Vegas Drive. In a harrowing and chaotic incident that unfolded in broad daylight, a shooter entered the fitness facility, unleashing a flurry of gunfire that left long-time employee Edgar Quinonez dead, the suspect fatally shot by law enforcement, and three others injured. The attack not only sent shockwaves through the local community but also triggered an outpouring of grief, outrage, and calls for justice across the region.

Edgar Quinonez was more than just a familiar face at LVAC—he was a fixture of the club, a dedicated employee who had devoted 15 years of his life to serving members and ensuring the gym remained a welcoming space for all. Described by co-workers as loyal, warm-hearted, and always willing to lend a hand, Quinonez had become part of the daily routine for many gymgoers. His loss has left a void that will not be easily filled, and his memory continues to resonate among friends, family, and patrons of the club.

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), the attack began shortly after 1:30 p.m., when 911 dispatchers received multiple emergency calls reporting an active shooter inside the gym. First responders arrived within minutes to find a scene of panic and confusion. Witnesses described the sound of gunshots echoing through the facility, followed by screams, the rush of people fleeing for safety, and the sight of the suspect, armed and agitated, navigating the gym’s entrance and lobby areas.

The suspect, whose identity was withheld at the time pending notification of next of kin, encountered officers as he attempted to exit the building. Rather than complying with orders to surrender, he allegedly tried to sprint past the officers. In response, law enforcement opened fire. The suspect was struck multiple times, subdued, and quickly transported to University Medical Center Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Inside the facility, first responders discovered the lifeless body of Edgar Quinonez. He had been fatally shot during the early stages of the attack. Two other individuals were seriously wounded and were rushed to nearby hospitals—one in critical condition. A third victim, who sustained less severe injuries, was able to self-transport to receive medical care. Authorities commended the swift action of emergency personnel and gymgoers who helped render aid in the immediate aftermath.

LVAC’s management issued a heartfelt statement following the incident: “We are heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred today at our Northwest club. Edgar Quinonez was a valued member of our team, and our prayers are with the victims, their families, our members, and our entire LVAC family. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation and will continue to support our team and members during this difficult time.”

The gym’s operations at the affected location were suspended indefinitely as law enforcement launched a comprehensive investigation. LVMPD investigators combed the scene for forensic evidence, reviewed surveillance footage, and began interviewing witnesses. While the motive behind the shooting remained unclear, detectives did not immediately rule out personal grievances or targeted violence. In a press briefing, Sheriff Kevin McMahill emphasized the department’s commitment to uncovering the full sequence of events and determining what led to the senseless act of violence.

As news of the shooting spread, reactions poured in from across the Las Vegas Valley. Community members gathered outside the gym to pay tribute to Quinonez, leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes near the entrance. Local leaders and advocacy organizations expressed condolences and called for improved measures to address gun violence. Mayor Carolyn Goodman tweeted: “Our hearts are with the victims of the LVAC shooting, and we honor the memory of Edgar Quinonez. This tragedy is a painful reminder of the urgent need to ensure the safety of all Las Vegans.”

Among those who spoke out was Maria Herrera, a long-time member of the gym who had known Quinonez for over a decade. “He was always smiling, always made you feel like you belonged,” she said tearfully. “He knew everyone’s name. He was part of the reason people kept coming back. He made the gym feel like a second home.”

The shooting also ignited broader discussions about security protocols at fitness centers and other public spaces. Experts in public safety noted that while gyms are typically seen as safe and communal spaces, the nature of their open layouts and the presence of large crowds can make them vulnerable to incidents of this kind. Security consultant David Madsen remarked, “Fitness facilities must begin to seriously consider integrating more robust emergency preparedness plans, including active shooter drills, staff training, and improved surveillance systems.”

While mass shootings have sadly become more common across the United States, the nature of this attack—occurring in a community-centered location, and targeting an individual like Edgar Quinonez—made it particularly jarring. The fact that this was the third officer-involved shooting in Las Vegas in 2025 further underscored rising concerns around public safety and law enforcement’s response capabilities. Despite the tragic outcome, many credited LVMPD for their swift and decisive action in neutralizing the threat before additional lives were lost.

In the days following the incident, social media platforms were flooded with tributes to Quinonez. Friends shared stories of his kindness, members recounted his motivational energy, and former colleagues praised his work ethic and generous spirit. A GoFundMe campaign launched by his family quickly surpassed its fundraising goal, reflecting the widespread impact he had on the community. Funds were designated to cover funeral expenses and provide support to his loved ones in the aftermath of their sudden loss.

Psychologists and grief counselors were made available to both staff and gym members, many of whom struggled with the trauma of witnessing such a violent event. Dr. Stephanie Langford, a trauma specialist based in Nevada, explained, “Incidents like this can shatter one’s sense of safety, especially when they occur in places that are part of our daily lives. It is crucial to provide mental health resources in the wake of such tragedies—not just immediately, but in the long term.”

As the investigation continued, questions remained. What motivated the shooter? Was there a connection between the suspect and Edgar Quinonez? Was this a targeted attack or an act of random violence? Authorities urged patience as detectives pursued leads, and they invited the public to come forward with any information that might aid their efforts.

Meanwhile, state lawmakers revisited stalled legislation aimed at improving gun control measures. Assemblywoman Dena Hardy, a long-time advocate for firearm reform, cited the LVAC shooting as a catalyst for renewed urgency. “We can’t accept this as the status quo. If we don’t act, we are complicit in the continued cycle of violence,” she stated during a legislative session just days after the tragedy.

In honor of Quinonez’s memory, LVAC announced plans to establish a memorial at the Rainbow Boulevard location and to create an employee scholarship fund in his name. The initiative, aimed at supporting the educational pursuits of team members, was seen as a fitting tribute to a man who was described as endlessly supportive of others’ growth and aspirations.

For now, the city of Las Vegas mourns, reflects, and seeks answers. The story of Edgar Quinonez serves not only as a reminder of a life lost too soon but also as a symbol of the community’s resilience in the face of tragedy. As the days stretch into weeks, his legacy will endure in the memories of those he touched—and in the collective resolve to prevent such heartbreak from happening again.