A Memorial Day rally in Red River, New Mexico, turned into a horrific scene of violence as two rival biker gangs engaged in a deadly shootout.
The confrontation, verified as gang-related by Mayor Linda Calhoun, claimed the lives of two individuals and inflicted injuries on several others. In response to the harrowing incident, the town has been placed under curfew, and hospitals are in lockdown mode to mitigate any possible acts of revenge.
Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the shootout and urging residents to steer clear of the affected area. The horrifying incident has cast a somber cloud over the Memorial Day festivities, emphasizing the urgent need for measures to address gang-related violence and maintain the safety of the community.
Violence erupts at Red River’s Memorial day rally
Tragedy struck the 41st annual Memorial Day rally in Red River, New Mexico, as rival biker gangs engaged in a violent clash. Witness accounts depicted a distressing scene of panic and chaos as attendees scrambled to escape the gunfire. Eddie Cook, a witness from Texas, recounted the harrowing moments when terrified individuals rushed past him, raising alarm about the ongoing shooting.
Even Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina, who was off-duty at the time, shared his sense of helplessness, underscoring the pervasive uncertainty and fear that gripped the town during the incident. The rally, meant to be a celebration, turned into a somber and frightening ordeal, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Authorities implement security measures
Following the violent shootout, law enforcement authorities swiftly mobilized to secure the area and prioritize the safety of residents and visitors. Holy Cross Hospital in Taos was promptly placed under lockdown, with local police reinforcing security measures. Concurrently, the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque received heightened police monitoring.
The New Mexico State Police promptly dispatched additional officers to Red River to facilitate a thorough investigation and issued a plea to the public, urging them to avoid the city until the situation was fully resolved. In a bid to preserve order and mitigate the risk of further incidents, Mayor Pascualito M. Maestas of Taos implemented a curfew and enforced restrictions on the sale of alcohol during specific hours. These proactive measures were implemented to safeguard the community and prevent any potential escalation of violence.
Bandidos and Mongols having a history of violence
While the exact identities of the biker gangs involved in the shooting remain unconfirmed, the Bandidos and Mongols have a notorious reputation for violence and criminal activities. The Bandidos, originating in San Leon, Texas, in 1966, are known as the largest motorcycle gang in the United States with thousands of members. The FBI has linked the Bandidos to drug distribution, including cocaine and marijuana. On the other hand, the Mongols, believed to have around 1,500 members, have established themselves in New Mexico and are recognized as one of the country’s most dangerous biker gangs. The Justice Department has documented their involvement in violent crimes to protect their territory and uphold their club’s reputation.
Amid the ongoing investigation, the town remains under curfew, and hospitals are in lockdown to preempt any potential reprisals. The incident has brought attention to the perilous nature of biker gangs such as the Bandidos and Mongols, notorious for their engagement in criminal pursuits. The community now faces the aftermath of this tragic act of violence, underscoring the pressing necessity for heightened endeavors in tackling gang-related problems and safeguarding the well-being of residents and visitors. The incident’s senseless nature has left the community grappling with its repercussions, intensifying the urgency to address these issues effectively and foster a secure environment for all.