Tomas Rivas, Nathan Rivas, Gustavo Dominguez, and Josiah Ontiveros Plead Not Guilty in the Deadly Las Cruces Young Park Shooting, All to Be Tried as Adults
The deadly mass shooting that occurred at Young Park in Las Cruces on March 21, 2025, has left the community in shock and mourning. Three people lost their lives, and 15 others sustained injuries in one of the deadliest shootings in the history of this New Mexico city. This devastating event took place during a car meet, a popular social gathering, which turned into a scene of chaos and bloodshed.
On April 7, 2025, four individuals—Tomas Rivas, 20; Nathan Rivas, 17; Gustavo Dominguez, 17; and Josiah Ontiveros, 15—appeared in court for their initial hearings. Each of the suspects entered a plea of not guilty, marking the first legal step in a long journey that will see all four tried as adults. The case has garnered significant attention due to the age of the suspects, the brutal nature of the crime, and the prior criminal histories of the accused.
The Incident: What Happened at Young Park?
On the afternoon of March 21, 2025, Young Park, a recreational area known for its walking trails and scenic views, became the site of a tragic mass shooting. A car meet event had drawn a crowd of people, many of whom were there to showcase their cars, socialize, and enjoy the day. Unfortunately, the event quickly spiraled into violence when shots rang out, causing panic and chaos.
The shooting left three people dead, with another 15 injured, many critically. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing people scrambling for cover. The victims included individuals who were either at the car meet or simply in the park at the time. Some were bystanders, others participants in the event, but all became victims in what has been described as a senseless and brutal attack.
Local authorities, including law enforcement and emergency services, responded swiftly to the scene, securing the area and tending to the wounded. Investigators began piecing together evidence, leading them to the identification of the four suspects.
The Suspects: Who Are Tomas Rivas, Nathan Rivas, Gustavo Dominguez, and Josiah Ontiveros?
- Tomas Rivas, 20: Tomas Rivas, the oldest of the group, is facing the most serious charges related to the shooting. With a prior criminal record, Tomas has been involved in a number of criminal activities, but his role in the tragic shooting appears to have escalated to a whole new level of violence. As an adult, Tomas will face the full weight of the legal system. His charges include first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, both of which carry severe penalties.
- Nathan Rivas, 17: Nathan Rivas, the younger brother of Tomas, is also facing charges related to the shooting. At 17 years old, Nathan is considered a juvenile but, like his brother, will be tried as an adult. Authorities revealed that Nathan has been involved in criminal activity previously, and his role in the shooting is central to the investigation. As a teenager, his case will raise questions about the treatment of young offenders and the impact of their actions on society.
- Gustavo Dominguez, 17: Also 17 years old, Gustavo Dominguez is the third suspect in the case. Like Nathan, Gustavo will be tried as an adult. His connection to Tomas and Nathan Rivas is still under investigation, but law enforcement has suggested that he was an active participant in the crime. Gustavo’s past criminal record, though not as extensive as that of the Rivas brothers, will likely be a key element in the prosecution’s case.
- Josiah Ontiveros, 15: The youngest of the suspects, Josiah Ontiveros, is just 15 years old. His involvement in the shooting has shocked many, particularly because of his age. Josiah’s criminal history, though not as well-documented as that of the others, suggests a troubled background. His case raises significant questions about juvenile delinquency, the legal system’s treatment of minors, and whether a 15-year-old should be held accountable as an adult for such a heinous act.
Legal Proceedings: Plea and Trial
During their initial court appearances on April 7, 2025, each of the four suspects entered a plea of not guilty to the charges brought against them. The charges include first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and several counts of aggravated assault. District Attorney Fernando Macias confirmed that all four suspects would be tried as adults, despite the fact that two of them are juveniles.
Macias explained, “All four are going to be joined together, at least initially in terms of their cases. And again, we anticipate going forward, all four of them are being tried as adults.” This decision to treat the suspects as adults reflects the severity of the crime and the significant role the suspects played in carrying out the deadly attack.
The case is still in its early stages, and as more evidence is gathered, additional charges may be added. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have promised to provide more details as they become available.
Background on the Legal Framework for Trying Juveniles as Adults
The decision to try Nathan Rivas, Gustavo Dominguez, and Josiah Ontiveros as adults has raised significant legal and ethical questions. Under New Mexico law, juveniles can be tried as adults if they are accused of committing particularly heinous crimes, such as murder or attempted murder.
In this case, the mass shooting at Young Park has been classified as a violent and premeditated act, leading prosecutors to argue that the suspects should face adult charges. Critics of trying juveniles as adults argue that young people are still in the process of emotional and psychological development and should be afforded a different standard of justice.
However, supporters of the decision argue that the severity of the crime warrants adult charges, regardless of the suspects’ ages. The legal system must balance the need for justice and the potential for rehabilitation when dealing with young offenders. This case will likely set a significant precedent in how the courts address the treatment of juveniles involved in violent crimes.
The Victims: Remembering Those Lost and Injured
The victims of the Young Park shooting are at the heart of this case. While their names have not been fully disclosed by authorities, their families and loved ones are left to mourn their loss. The impact of the shooting extends beyond the immediate victims to the entire community of Las Cruces, which has been shaken by the senseless violence.
Three people lost their lives in the shooting, and 15 others were injured, many of whom remain in critical condition. Some of the victims were at the car meet event, while others were simply visiting the park. The randomness of the violence has left many questioning how such a tragedy could occur in what was supposed to be a peaceful community event.
The victims’ families have expressed their devastation and sorrow in the wake of the tragedy, and many are calling for justice. As the legal proceedings move forward, the families of the victims will undoubtedly be following the case closely, seeking accountability for the loss of their loved ones.
Community Response: Grief, Outrage, and Calls for Justice
In the days following the shooting, the city of Las Cruces has been united in grief and outrage. Local residents, community leaders, and law enforcement officials have expressed their shock at the brutality of the attack and their commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
The car meet, which was supposed to be a fun and safe event, has now become a symbol of the violence that can erupt unexpectedly in any community. There have been vigils held in honor of the victims, with local residents coming together to support the families and show their solidarity.
At the same time, there has been widespread discussion about the root causes of violence in the community. Many are asking what can be done to prevent such tragedies from happening again, especially in a city that has historically been known for its peaceful atmosphere.
The Investigation: How Law Enforcement Identified the Suspects
The investigation into the Young Park shooting has been a joint effort between local law enforcement, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Department, and federal authorities. Investigators have pieced together evidence from witnesses, surveillance footage, and forensic analysis to identify the four suspects.
The suspects’ prior criminal records played a significant role in their identification, as law enforcement had previous encounters with them. In addition, the Rivas brothers were known to have a history of criminal activity together, which suggested a potential motive for the shooting.
While details of the investigation are still unfolding, authorities have indicated that the shooting may have been premeditated and that the suspects had planned the attack in advance. Investigators are continuing to search for more information about the suspects’ motives and whether there were any other individuals involved in the crime.
Conclusion: A Community in Shock and a Long Road to Justice
The Las Cruces Young Park shooting is a tragedy that has left a deep scar on the community. As the legal process unfolds, the families of the victims and the citizens of Las Cruces will be looking for answers and justice. The case will raise important questions about the treatment of juveniles in the criminal justice system, the role of prior criminal activity in shaping future crimes, and the broader issue of violence in communities across the country.
While the investigation and trial are still in the early stages, the community’s resolve to see justice done is strong. The victims, their families, and the people of Las Cruces will continue to demand accountability, hoping that this tragedy will lead to meaningful change and that the legacy of those lost will not be forgotten.
