WASHOE COUNTY, Nev. – On March 18, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., officers with the Reno Police Department (RPD) responded to the area of Montello Street and Oliver Avenue on a report of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located an adult victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers immediately rendered life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Through the rapid response of patrol officers and the coordinated efforts of RPD’s Robbery/Homicide Unit, investigators quickly developed a description of the suspect vehicle. RPD’s Real Time Intelligence Center analysts then took the description of the vehicle and started gathering information on the direction it was traveling.
Leveraging regional camera systems, including resources from the Carson City Sheriff’s Office and Douglas County, the Regional Gang Unit tracked the suspect vehicle as it traveled from Reno to Carson City, and ultimately into Incline Village.
A deputy with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop in Incline Village. Members of the Regional Gang Unit responded to the scene and detained the suspect, who was later identified as 33-year-old Irving Cruz.
Through a combination of investigative techniques, including witness interviews and evidence collection, Cruz was arrested and charged with open murder with a deadly weapon.
The victim’s name has not yet been released.
This arrest highlights the strength of coordinated, real-time law enforcement response and the critical role of regional partnerships. The swift apprehension of the suspect was made possible by the immediate actions of Reno Police patrol officers, the expertise of the Robbery/Homicide Detectives, and the seamless collaboration with allied agencies across northern Nevada.
This arrest could not have been made without support from RPD’s partners at the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, the Carson City Sherrif’s Office, and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to call RPD’s non-emergency line at 775-334-2121. They can also contact Secret Witness by calling or texting the tip to 775-322-4900.