Amarillo police give update on nightclub shooting that killed 1, injured 8
A shooting early Sunday morning at Chesney's nightclub on South Polk Street in Amarillo left one person dead and eight others injured, the Amarillo Police Department announced Monday.
At approximately 2:05 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 26, authorities received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the 700 block of South Polk Street. Polk Street has long been a hub of nightlife in Amarillo, known for its vibrant bars and entertainment venues. Witnesses described a vehicle approaching the entrance of the open Chesney's nightclub before an unidentified individual got out of the vehicle and opened fire into the crowd with an AR-style pistol. After discharging approximately 15 rounds, the suspect got back into the vehicle and fled the scene.
"A vehicle approached the entrance of Chesney's nightclub, and an individual exited, opening fire into the crowd," said Amarillo Police Department Public Information Officer Corporal Carmel Ogden said at a news conference held Monday morning. "Thanks to the bravery and persistence of a bystander, Randall County Sheriff's deputies were able to locate and stop the vehicle, leading to the apprehension of three suspects."
A bystander pursued the suspect's vehicle and relayed its direction of travel to emergency services. This swift action enabled Randall County Sheriff's Office deputies to locate and stop the vehicle near Hillside and Bell streets. Three suspects were apprehended and taken to the Amarillo Police Department's Homicide Division for questioning.
The shooter has been identified as 23-year-old Robert Kenney Knox, and the driver as 21-year-old Nahryah Hilesta Ines Hayes, both residents of Amarillo. A third passenger, 22-year-old Britt Brinson Cave, was also arrested. Knox and Hayes face charges of murder and eight counts of deadly conduct and discharge of a firearm. They are currently being held at the Potter County Detention Center. Cave was charged with public intoxication and is being held at the Randall County Detention Center.
The shooting resulted in nine people with gunshot wounds. Six individuals were taken to local hospitals by paramedics, while three others arrived to hospitals by private vehicles. Tragically, 25-year-old John Love Louima, who was on a work visa from Haiti, later died from his injuries. Louima's family has been notified. The other victims are receiving medical treatment and are in various stages of recovery.
"In our investigation, we've determined that the firearm used was an AR-style platform, kind of a pistol, with a magazine capacity of approximately 28 rounds," said Lieutenant James Clements of the Homicide Unit. According to Clements, the weapon involved is not illegal.
Clements also addressed the wounded's medical status. While he could not give specifics, he said their conditions were not expected to worsen. "Right now, from what we understand, we're not going to release any information on the victims themselves for the privacy of the families," he said. "However, due to medical intervention, we feel that there are no further issues with digressing in their conditions."
Police recovered the firearm, shell casings, and other evidence from the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting may be linked to an earlier altercation inside Chesney's nightclub. Detectives are working to reconstruct the events leading up to the incident and determine the motive behind the attack.
Chief Martin Birkenfeld emphasized the gravity of the incident and the community's response. "The motive here is inexcusable. It's hate-fueled anger. It's not more complicated than that — it's stupid. Ugly, impulsive violence and something that we should not accept as a community. Something that we will not accept as law enforcement," Birkenfeld stated. "We've got to do better, and I don't have all the answers for that. The best we can do from our perspective is to hold people accountable for gun ownership."
Birkenfeld continued, "We're going to continue to do that. Over the last few years, we've put a lot of resources into combating violent crime in Amarillo. We've increased the number of detectives in the homicide unit, and we are building our real-time crime center so we can get information to officers faster. We're going to do everything we can."
He added, "Amarillo is still a safe place overall, but there are definitely places where you can put yourself in danger, and some of that has to do with the time of day and the location. We know that bars tend to get a little bit crazy as the night goes on. This incident started inside a bar, and it actually ended up with people leaving and coming back to do violence outside on the street."
Birkenfeld further commented on the oversight of establishments like Chesney's, where the shooting occurred outside: "Certainly looking at any business that has an alcohol service permit. We look at that, we report that to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). We've done that in the past with Chesney's because of the problems there. Two years ago, we filed a protest on the renewal of their license, and we got to hear back from TABC on that, but there certainly is the potential for consequences."
"We're going to look at every avenue because in the end, we want businesses to thrive and survive and do well but not at the cost of public safety," Birkenfeld said. "It's easy to want to blame a place, but we're placing the blame squarely on the person who pulled the trigger and shot those people."
Lt. Clements provided additional details about the shooting location and circumstances. "The shooting occurred right at the entrance of Chesney's nightclub on South Polk Street, a location that typically sees a lot of activity, especially during late hours. The suspects targeted the crowd outside, turning what should have been a safe environment into a scene of violence. We are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired."
Clements also addressed the response efforts, stating, "Our first responders acted with incredible speed and professionalism. The coordinated efforts between police, fire departments, and medical teams were instrumental in saving lives and minimizing further casualties. We are proud of how our team handled this crisis under such intense pressure."
Regarding the involvement of the third suspect, Cave, Clements clarified, "Britt Brinson Cave was found to have no role in the planning or execution of the shooting. He was merely present in the vehicle at the time of the incident and did not conspire or participate in any way."
The City of Amarillo issued a statement later Sunday through Mayor Cole Stanley, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic events. 'We mourn the loss of life and pray for healing for those injured. This is a devastating moment for our community, but I know Amarillo's strength and resilience will help us support one another through it,' Stanley said. He also commended the swift actions of law enforcement and the community, stating, 'I am incredibly grateful to our law enforcement officers, first responders, and the citizens whose actions helped bring resolution to this situation. Their efforts reflect the values of unity and care that make Amarillo a community I am proud to call home.'
Mayor Stanley added, 'We are working closely with the police department to ensure that our nightlife venues are safe and that such incidents do not recur. Community safety is our top priority, and we will continue to invest in measures that protect our residents and visitors.'
In addition to addressing the immediate aftermath, Chief Birkenfeld outlined future initiatives aimed at preventing similar incidents. "We are expanding our real-time crime center to enhance our ability to respond swiftly to emergencies and analyze crime patterns more effectively. Additionally, we are increasing community outreach programs to foster better relationships between law enforcement and residents, ensuring that our strategies are both effective and community-driven."
Lt. Clements also highlighted ongoing efforts to support the victims and their families. "We have set up a dedicated support line for victims and their loved ones, providing access to counseling and resources to help them navigate this difficult time. Our priority is not only to bring justice, but also to support our community members affected by this tragedy."
The Amarillo Police Department's Homicide Unit is urging community members to come forward with any information or video footage related to the shooting. Assistance from the public is considered crucial in advancing the investigation.
Residents with any relevant information are encouraged to contact the Amarillo Police Department at 806-378-9468.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo police give update on nightclub shooting
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Authorities believe the shooter was wearing a mask when carrying out the attacks, according to a law enforcement official. The FBI released photos of the suspect including an image that appears to show him wearing a mask that covered his face and head, a police uniform, and holding a flashlight. Multiple bullet holes could be seen in the front door of Hoffman's home. John and Yvette Hoffman each underwent surgery, according to Walz. Hortman, 55, had been the top Democratic leader in the state House since 2017. She led Democrats in a three-week walkout at the beginning of this year's session in a power struggle with Republicans. Under a power sharing agreement, she turned the gavel over to Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth and assumed the title speaker emerita. Hortman used her position as speaker in 2023 to champion expanded protections for abortion rights, including legislation to solidify Minnesota's status as a refuge for patients from restrictive states who travel to the state to seek abortions — and to protect providers who serve them. Walz called her a 'formidable public servant, a fixture and a giant in Minnesota.' Hortman and her husband had two adult children. The initial autopsy reports from the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office gave their cause of death as 'multiple gunshot wounds.' The reports said Melissa Hortman died at the scene while her husband was pronounced dead at the hospital. Hoffman, 60, was first elected in 2012 and was chair of the Senate Human Services Committee, which oversees one of the biggest parts of the state budget. He and his wife have one daughter. Boelter was appointed to the workforce development board in 2016 and then reappointed in 2019 to a four-year term that expired in 2023, state records show. Corporate records show Boelter's wife filed to create a company called Praetorian Guard Security Services LLC with the same Green Isle mailing address listed for the couple. Boelter's wife is listed as president and CEO and he is listed as director of security patrols on the company's website. The website says the company provides armed security for property and events and features a photo of an SUV painted in a two-tone black and silver pattern similar to a police vehicle. Another photo shows a man in black tactical gear with a military-style helmet and a ballistic vest. An online resume says Boelter is a security contractor who has worked in the Middle East and Africa, in addition to past managerial roles at companies in Minnesota. 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Speaking Sunday on CNN's 'Inside Politics Sunday,' Smith said she personally felt safe and the thought of security details becoming the norm was unbearable. 'But I think we are at a tipping point right now when we see these kinds of personal threats. It gets worse, not better,' she said. 'I don't want to think that I need to have a personal security detail wherever I go.'
Politico
8 hours ago
- Politico
Suspect still being sought in shooting of 2 Minnesota state lawmakers
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota— A massive search was stretching into its second day for a man who authorities say posed as a police officer and fatally shot a Democratic state lawmaker in her suburban Minneapolis home, an act Gov. Tim Walz called 'a politically motivated assassination.' Authorities said the suspect also shot and wounded a second lawmaker and was trying to flee the area. Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in their Brooklyn Park home early Saturday. Sen. John Hoffman, also a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette, were injured at their Champlin address, about 9 miles away. Authorities identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, and the FBI issued a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction. They shared a photo taken Saturday of Boelter wearing a tan cowboy hat and asked the public to report sightings. Hundreds of law enforcement officers fanned out in the search for the suspect. Authorities had not given any details on a possible motive as of Saturday night. Boelter is a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, records show, though it was not clear if or how well they knew each other. The attacks prompted warnings to other state elected officials and the cancellation of planned 'No Kings' demonstrations against President Donald Trump, though some went ahead anyway. Authorities said the suspect had 'No Kings' flyers in his car and writings mentioning the names of the victims as well as other lawmakers and officials, though they could not say if he had any other specific targets. A Minnesota official told AP the suspect's writings also contained information targeting prominent lawmakers who have been outspoken in favor of abortion rights. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing. 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After seeing who the victims were, police sent officers to proactively check on Hortman's home. There they encountered what appeared to be a police vehicle and a man dressed as an officer at the door, leaving the house. 'When officers confronted him, the individual immediately fired upon the officers who exchanged gunfire, and the suspect retreated back into the home' and escaped on foot, Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said. Multiple bullet holes could be seen in the front door of Hoffman's home. John and Yvette Hoffman each underwent surgery, according to Walz. Hortman, 55, had been the top Democratic leader in the state House since 2017. She led Democrats in a three-week walkout at the beginning of this year's session in a power struggle with Republicans. Under a power sharing agreement, she turned the gavel over to Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth and assumed the title speaker emerita. Hortman used her position as speaker in 2023 to champion expanded protections for abortion rights, including legislation to solidify Minnesota's status as a refuge for patients from restrictive states who travel to the state to seek abortions — and to protect providers who serve them. Walz called her a 'formidable public servant, a fixture and a giant in Minnesota.' Hortman and her husband had two adult children. The initial autopsy reports from the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office gave their cause of death as 'multiple gunshot wounds.' The reports said Melissa Hortman died at the scene while her husband was pronounced dead at the hospital. Hoffman, 60, was first elected in 2012 and was chair of the Senate Human Services Committee, which oversees one of the biggest parts of the state budget. He and his wife have one daughter. Boelter was appointed to the workforce development board in 2016 and then reappointed in 2019 to a four-year term that expired in 2023, state records show. Corporate records show Boelter's wife filed to create a company called Praetorian Guard Security Services LLC with the same Green Isle mailing address listed for the couple. Boelter's wife is listed as president and CEO and he is listed as director of security patrols on the company's website. The website says the company provides armed security for property and events and features a photo of an SUV painted in a two-tone black and silver pattern similar to a police vehicle. Another photo shows a man in black tactical gear with a military-style helmet and a ballistic vest. An online resume says Boelter is a security contractor who has worked in the Middle East and Africa, in addition to past managerial roles at companies in Minnesota. Around 6 a.m., Boelter texted friends to say he had 'made some choices,' the Minnesota Star Tribune reported. In the messages, read to reporters by David Carlson, Boelter did not specify what he had done but said: 'I'm going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both and I wish it hadn't gone this way. … I'm sorry for all the trouble this has caused.' Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Spring, called the attack 'evil' and said she was 'heartbroken beyond words' by the killings. The shootings are the latest in a series of attacks against lawmakers across parties. In April a suspect set fire to the home of Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, forcing him and his family to flee during the Jewish holiday of Passover. The suspect said he planned to beat Shapiro with a small sledgehammer if he found him, according to court documents. In July 2024, Trump was grazed on the ear by one of a hail of bullets that killed a Trump supporter. Two months later a man with a rifle was discovered near the president's Florida golf course and arrested. Other incidents include a 2022 hammer attack on the husband of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in their San Francisco home and a 2020 plot by anti-government extremists to kidnap Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and start a civil war. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said he asked Capitol Police to 'immediately increase security' for Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. He also asked Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican, to hold a briefing on member security.
