RENO, Nev. – Authorities have identified a suspect and filed multiple murder charges following a deadly shooting on Monday morning in the valet area of the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, an attack that left three people dead and two others critically injured.

The Reno Police Department (RPD) confirmed Tuesday that Marcus Thorne, 42, of nearby Sparks, Nevada, is in custody in connection with the rampage. The incident has sent shockwaves through the city, prompting questions about the motive behind the violence and the security of public spaces at major tourist destinations.

The Attack Unfolded in Moments

The shooting began at approximately 7:25 a.m. on Monday, a time when the casino was relatively quiet but staff and early-arriving guests were present. According to an RPD statement, the suspect opened fire in the covered valet section near the main entrance, creating a scene of chaos.

Reno Police Chief Jason Soto stated in a press conference that officers responded within minutes to reports of an active shooter. "Our officers, along with deputies from the Washoe County Sheriff's Office, arrived to a harrowing scene," Soto said. "They acted swiftly to neutralize the threat and secure the area, preventing any further loss of life."

The suspect was taken into custody at the scene without further incident. A handgun, believed to be the weapon used in the attack, was recovered by investigators. The casino and surrounding area were placed on lockdown for several hours as law enforcement cleared the property.

Focus Shifts to Motive and Victims

Thorne faces three counts of open murder with a deadly weapon and two counts of attempted murder. He is currently being held without bail at the Washoe County Jail and is expected to make his first court appearance later this week.

While the suspect is in custody, the motive remains the central question for investigators. "At this time, there is no known connection between the suspect and the victims," Chief Soto told reporters. "We are meticulously piecing together the suspect's background, recent activities, and digital footprint to understand what led to this senseless act of violence."

The identities of the three deceased victims have not yet been officially released, pending notification of their families. Officials from Renown Regional Medical Center confirmed they are treating two other victims, a man and a woman, who remain in critical but stable condition.

In a statement, the Grand Sierra Resort expressed its condolences. "We are heartbroken by the tragic event that occurred on our property. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the victims and their loved ones," the statement read. The casino management emphasized that they are cooperating fully with the ongoing police investigation and have made grief counselors available to employees and guests.

Community in Mourning

The shooting has deeply affected the Reno community, a city heavily reliant on tourism and its reputation as a safe entertainment hub. Mayor Hillary Schieve called the attack "a devastating blow to our city."

"Reno is a community that prides itself on its hospitality and warmth," Mayor Schieve said. "To have this violence erupt at one of our most iconic landmarks is horrifying. We now must come together to support the victims' families and each other as we heal."

The investigation is expected to be lengthy as detectives process a complex crime scene and delve into the suspect’s history. For now, a community is left to grapple with the aftermath of a sudden and brutal attack that shattered a quiet Monday morning.