Midnight Ambush at Silver Legacy: Sparks Community Mourns Oscar Henderson, 34, as Police Hunt Elusive Shooter

RENO, Nev — The Reno community is mourning the loss of 34‑year‑old Oscar Henderson of Sparks, Nevada, after he was killed in a shooting outside the Silver Legacy Casino in downtown Reno during the early morning hours of May 1.

Shooting Details

Shortly before 2 a.m., downtown security cameras captured Henderson exiting the Silver Legacy Casino on North Virginia Street. Surveillance footage shows a dark‑colored sedan pull alongside the curb. An unknown assailant emerged and fired multiple shots, striking Henderson. The vehicle then sped away northbound. Reno Police Department (RPD) officers arrived on scene within three minutes of receiving 911 calls reporting gunfire. Despite life‑saving efforts by first responders, Henderson was pronounced dead at the scene.

RPD recovered eight 9 mm shell casings and a single projectile from the sidewalk. Crime scene investigators processed the area for fingerprints and DNA evidence. No weapon has been recovered.

Victim Profile

Oscar Henderson was a lifelong Nevadan known for his dedication to youth mentorship and local arts. A graduate of Spanish Springs High School, he worked as an events coordinator for community festivals in Sparks and volunteered as a basketball coach for at‑risk teens. Friends describe him as “charismatic,” “generous,” and “always ready to help.”

“Oscar believed in this community,” said longtime friend Marisol Ruiz. “He spent weekends organizing free art workshops. His loss is immeasurable.”

Henderson is survived by his mother, two younger sisters, and a wide circle of friends and mentees. Funeral arrangements are pending; the family has asked for privacy during their time of grief.

Investigation Underway

Reno Police Chief Serena Morales pledged a relentless pursuit of justice. “We will use every resource—surveillance, forensics, and community tips—to identify the killer,” she said. Detectives have interviewed more than a dozen witnesses and are reviewing hours of downtown camera footage.

RPD is asking anyone with information—eye‑witness accounts, video clips, or details about the dark sedan—to contact the department’s homicide unit at 775‑334‑2121 or submit anonymous tips via Northern Nevada Crime Stoppers at 775‑322‑4900 (case #25‑0831).

Community Response

Downtown businesses and residents expressed shock that violence struck a normally bustling entertainment district.

“I’ve worked here 15 years and never felt unsafe,” said Carlos Vega, manager of a nearby restaurant. “Oscar’s death is a terrible wake‑up call.”

Local advocacy groups plan a candlelight vigil Friday evening at the Silver Legacy’s main entrance. Organizers hope to honor Henderson’s community work and call for greater downtown safety measures, including improved lighting and increased police patrols.

Broader Context

This fatal shooting marks the second homicide in downtown Reno in 2025. In March, a bar altercation on West Street left one man dead. While overall crime rates in Reno have declined slightly year‑over‑year, violent incidents in entertainment zones have drawn renewed scrutiny from city leaders.

Mayor Hillary Schieve issued a statement: “Oscar’s murder is a tragedy for our entire region. We will collaborate with RPD, business owners, and community groups to ensure our streets are safe for residents and visitors alike.”

Next Steps

1. Forensic analysis: Ballistics comparison and forensic testing on recovered casings will be completed within two weeks.
2. Public tips: Crime Stoppers reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to an arrest remains in effect.
3. Safety initiatives: City council will review proposals for enhanced street lighting and expanded night‑time patrols at their May 14 meeting.

As investigators piece together Henderson’s final moments, the Reno and Sparks communities unite in grief and determination. Anyone with information is urged to come forward to help bring Henderson’s shooter to justice and to honor his legacy of service.

Key Information