On an otherwise ordinary Friday afternoon in Las Vegas, May 16, 2025, a beloved member of the community, 31-year-old Edgar Quinonez, a Hispanic male, found his life tragically cut short. A longtime and dedicated employee of 15 years at the Las Vegas Athletic Club, Quinonez was a familiar and friendly face to the many members who frequented the gym on North Rainbow Boulevard.
His warmth and positivity had left a lasting impression on countless individuals over the years, making him more than just an employee, but a cherished part of the LVAC family.
The day took a horrifying turn when a 34-year-old man named Daniel Ortega entered the bustling fitness center armed with an Olympic Arms PCR-223 caliber rifle and multiple ammunition magazines. Shortly after 1:30 p.m., Ortega approached the front desk where Quinonez was working. After a brief exchange of words with another employee, Ortega raised his rifle and began firing. In the ensuing chaos, Quinonez was fatally shot. Three other individuals were also injured during the violent rampage. Terrified gym-goers scrambled for safety as the sound of gunfire echoed through the facility.
The potential for an even greater tragedy was averted by a crucial turn of events – Ortega's rifle malfunctioned. As the gunman, who had fired 24 rounds, attempted to exit the gym, he was confronted by responding Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers. An officer-involved shooting ensued, and Ortega was struck by police gunfire. He was later pronounced dead.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Las Vegas community was left in mourning for Edgar Quinonez, a man remembered for his kindness, dedication, and positive spirit. Friends and colleagues recalled him as a source of light, someone who was always funny and hardworking. As of the latest reports, the motive for the shooting remains under investigation, and there is no known connection between Ortega and Quinonez. While law enforcement is aware of speculation regarding the motive, no definitive reason for this senseless act of violence has been released to the public. The suspect, Daniel Ortega, had a previous job as a bellman at a Las Vegas Strip property. With the suspect deceased, there have been no arrests in the case.
