Gary Steward, 20, and Liam Johnson, 19 Death, Obituary – The Las Vegas community is in mourning after a tragic and senseless shooting inside the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) on the afternoon of Friday, May 16, 2025. The attack, which occurred at the gym located at 1725 N. Rainbow Blvd., resulted in the death of Edgar Quinonez, a beloved LVAC staff member, and left several others injured.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., gunfire erupted inside the gym, sending frantic gymgoers fleeing for their lives. Witnesses described the chaos as individuals ducked for cover, trying to escape the violence that suddenly shattered the peaceful environment. Among the victims was Quinonez, who tragically lost his life in the attack, leaving behind a community that will forever remember his kindness and dedication.
Edgar Quinonez had been a longtime member of the LVAC family, having worked at the gym for 15 years. Over the years, he had earned a reputation not only as a reliable staff member but also as a friendly face and a source of positivity. His colleagues and gym members alike have paid tribute to his dedication and the warmth he brought to the gym every day.
LVAC released an official statement following the shooting, saying:
“Yesterday, the LVAC family lost a dear friend and teammate, Edgar Quinonez. Edgar was part of the LVAC family for 15 years. In that time, he became so much more than a colleague. He was a source of kindness, dedication, and positivity. His presence touched the lives of so many members and teammates, and his impact will never be forgotten. We are praying for Edgar’s family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed.”
Quinonez’s legacy is one of service, camaraderie, and unwavering support for the people around him. His family, friends, and coworkers now face the unimaginable pain of losing someone so integral to their lives.
The chaotic events began when a gunman opened fire inside the gym, killing Quinonez and wounding at least three others. Two victims, including Quinonez, were pronounced dead at the scene, while others were rushed to University Medical Center (UMC), where one was listed in critical condition. Authorities later confirmed that the shooter was also pronounced dead at the hospital, having been shot by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officers during the confrontation. The identity of the shooter has not yet been publicly disclosed, and the motive behind the attack remains under investigation.
Eyewitnesses, including Claudio Vigani, a gymgoer who was present at the time, described the chaos inside the gym. “They said ‘Get out, get out, get out,’” Vigani told CBS affiliate KLAS-TV, recounting the horrifying moments. “Then I saw the dead guy next to the machine.” The terror and confusion that followed were shared by many as they rushed to escape the scene.
Following the incident, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police confirmed that there was no longer a threat to the community. However, the emotional toll of the tragedy has been felt across the Las Vegas Valley. Gary Steward, one of the gymgoers who narrowly avoided the shooting, recounted how he and a friend had stopped at a nearby nutrition store just moments before the incident. Had they gone directly into the gym, they might have been caught in the crossfire.
“It’s strange. Who shoots up a gym?” Steward said, his voice reflecting the disbelief and shock felt by many. The randomness of the attack has left everyone in the community grappling with unanswered questions.
The loss of Edgar Quinonez is a tragic blow to all who knew him. His memory will be cherished by his friends, family, and coworkers, and he will always be remembered for his kindness, work ethic, and ability to brighten any room he walked into.
A candlelight vigil and memorial service are being planned for Quinonez, as friends and gym members gather to honor his life. His family has also set up a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses and provide support to those who are grieving.
Though the circumstances surrounding his death are still being investigated, Edgar Quinonez’s legacy is already firmly established in the hearts of those who loved him. He will forever be remembered as a man who gave so much of himself to others, leaving a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.
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