Las Cruces Public Schools offers support after fatal Young Park shooting
District provides counseling, crisis resources following death of Centennial student
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - Las Cruces Public Schools is offering counseling and emotional support after a fatal shooting March 21 at Young Park that involved current and former students, including a Centennial High School student who was killed.
The shooting occurred shortly before 10 p.m. Friday during a large gathering at the park. According to police, at least 15 people were injured when multiple individuals opened fire, making it the deadliest mass shooting in New Mexico history in terms of total casualties. Victims ranged in age from teenagers to 36 years old, and several current LCPS students were among those injured.
To date, four suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting. Each has been charged with three open counts of murder. Police said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.
Over the weekend, LCPS administrators worked with local mental health agencies to coordinate additional counseling support at school campuses beginning Monday. The district also sent a message to staff Saturday reaffirming the availability of mental health resources.
“We are deeply saddened at this news and offer our condolences to all the families impacted by this senseless tragedy,” LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz said in a statement. “The events that unfolded over the weekend are difficult to understand, especially for our young people. Our schools need to be a safe space for our students and staff, and we are committed to ensuring that.”
The district reminded staff, students and families that it continues to work closely with law enforcement. Anyone with information related to the shooting is asked to call the non-emergency line at 575-526-0795.
The Doña Ana County Office of Emergency Management has organized in-person crisis counseling, victim advocacy, spiritual support and financial resource assistance for those affected. Services are being offered Monday, March 24 and Tuesday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Las Cruces Convention Center, 680 E. University Ave. Additional dates may be announced.
Families seeking emotional support can also contact the 24/7 Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The KidTalk line is available at 575-636-3636 or by email at kidtalk@lapinion.org.
Additional resources for parents on how to talk to children about violence are available through the National Association of School Psychologists.
In partnership with Las Cruces police, the Office of Emergency Management and the New Mexico Crime Victims Reparation Commission, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has launched the Together Las Cruces Crisis Action Fund to provide secure financial support for those impacted.