“Tragedies like this are horrific for any community to endure, not just for the victims, the first responders and the people who are there, but for everyone who calls our community home,” Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance stated. The predawn silence outside the Grand Sierra Resort was broken by unmistakable rapid gunfire, as eyewitness Michael Sisco described, killing three and injuring several others. The violence came out of the blue two Southern California friends, in town for a bachelor party, were ambushed while waiting for a ride, and one local resident was killed merely driving through the parking lot. In a matter of minutes, law enforcement and resort security did their job, stopping the carnage. “The bravery and rapid response by our officers stopped the suspect’s rampage on innocent victims, which definitely saved lives and prevented additional people from being victimized,” Nance underscored.
Since the investigation is ongoing, Sparks Police Department has led the investigation, and six Reno officers who were involved have been put on administrative leave, which is in line with procedure. The gunman, 26-year-old Dakota Hawver, is still hospitalized in critical condition. No prior criminal or mental health record has been found for Hawver, and no motive is known. For much of the Reno community, the seeming randomness of the attack at a locale well-known for celebration and recreation has created a profound sense of vulnerability and shock. “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,” said City Council member Devon Reese.
Since the attack, the community has been coming together to stand in support of each other. A multifaith candlelight vigil at the Unity Center of Reno is unifying people of all faiths to remember the victims and to oppose violence. “We, as people of faith, despite our seriously different belief systems, must take a stand against violence and hatred by coming together with kindness and love,” wrote Rajan Zed, president of the Universal Society of Hinduism. Unity Minister Toni King further stated, “We are praying to God to provide the mourning families and others touched by this tragedy the help and consolation in dealing with this at the difficult time. This unbelievably tragic and horrible crime should be universally condemned” while community leaders insist on solidarity and healing.
Emotional aftershocks are usual for those affected directly or indirectly. The American Psychological Association explains that mass shootings may trigger anxiety, sorrow, ire, and insomnia even among those hearing about it through the media or social media. Professionals emphasize that such feelings are typical and tend to decrease over time, but support is the prime necessity. “People who talk about traumatic events have better outcomes,” mental health experts recommend. Talking to friends, relatives, or spiritual guides, and refraining from exposure to disturbing news, can calm anxiety and create resilience. For individuals who are having trouble with lingering symptoms such as nightmares, concentrating, or avoiding thoughts of the event asking for help from a mental health professional is an important step.
Parents can also observe changes in their children. Children can respond emphatically to bad news, at times reacting differently than adults do. Young children may become clingy or regress in behaviors, whereas adolescents become angry or guilty. The National Institute of Mental Health suggests continuing routines, promoting open discussion, and getting help from a professional if kids persistently struggle.
For individuals made anxious by the incident, being prepared can provide a feeling of control. The Department of Homeland Security advises observing your surroundings in open places, being familiar with exit points, and recalling the “Run, Hide, Fight” training if ever confronted with an active shooter. Acquiring basic first aid skills and attending community safety training can empower individuals and make neighborhoods safer through the development of useful skills and preparedness.
Recovery from such violence is a process that is time-consuming, empathetic, and one that requires the community’s effort. Support groups, counseling centers, and community vigils are all a part of the weave that assists survivors and residents in healing and feeling safe again. As one survivor-advocate described, “The trauma of gun violence doesn’t end when the shooting stops. Experiencing gun violence has a lasting impact on survivors” and the community at large. But as Reno comes together to honor those who were lost and to comfort each other, the city’s strength prevails reminding all that even in the midst of senseless tragedy, hope and healing can exist.
