GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Glendale Police Department is appealing to the public for information in connection with a mass shooting that occurred on May 4 at El Camaron Gigante Mariscos & Steakhouse, where attendees had gathered for a car show and music event.
The gunfire erupted around 7:45 p.m. near 57th Avenue and SR 51, leaving three individuals dead and five others wounded. Among the deceased are brothers Damien Sproule, 17, and Christopher Sproule, 21, along with 21-year-old Milo Christopher Suniga. The injured victims range in age from 16 to 23 and include both men and women. Authorities have yet to make any arrests, and preliminary investigations indicate that multiple shooters may have been involved.
In the wake of the shooting, some local business owners have initiated a petition seeking a citywide ban on future events resembling the recent gathering. They argue that this incident exemplifies a troubling trend of violence associated with such events. However, opinions among business owners vary. Mike Nen, host of the Live Ride podcast, emphasized the event’s family-oriented nature, noting that it aimed to celebrate Chicano culture, not lowrider culture, in an effort to dispel stereotypes linking car shows with crime.
Witnesses described the atmosphere before the shooting as safe and family-friendly. Yet, concerns remain among some business operators about persistent issues of violence. A petition on Change.org has garnered around 75 signatures, labeling car meetups as dangerous due to their alleged ties to reckless behavior and violence.
Conversely, other business owners, like Clinto Newsom, voiced support for such events, arguing they attract visitors to downtown Glendale, which benefits their businesses. Ken Brown, owner of Drawn To Comics, echoed this sentiment, stating he has never faced problems related to these gatherings.
Investigators revealed that those involved in the incident were acquaintances with a history of conflict, although they have not confirmed any gang affiliations. The police are calling for witnesses to come forward, providing a portal for anonymous submissions of videos and photos from that evening, hoping that new evidence will assist in their inquiries.
Vigils were held on May 6 for the victims, providing an opportunity for grieving family members and friends to honor their memory. Suniga’s family expressed profound sorrow, reflecting on his kind nature and the love shared among them. “He never left the house without saying, ‘I love you,’” his family recalled, highlighting their sense of loss.
As the investigation continues, the community remains shaken by the tragedy, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts to ensure public safety in future events. Police are urging anyone with information to aid their search for the individuals responsible for the violence that marred what was meant to be a celebration.