New Years' Shooting at Green Valley Ranch Casino

​A shooting occurred at the Green Valley Ranch casino Tuesday afternoon. One person was shot by hotel security. There were no other injuries/fatalities. A bystander reported that security fired six times at the suspect who was reportedly in the ballroom or lobby area. Others reported that police told them the man was seen by security entering the building with a gun. 

Shannon Michael Howell, 53, of Las Vegas was the deceased. Howell apparently came to the casino to commit suicide as he had both a suicide note on his person and a pistol with one round chambered, but an empty magazine. Howell was contacted by three securities guards, apparently already having the gun in his hand, according to some accounts. This appears to be suicide-by-cop (security guard).
 
It was initially reported as an active shooter, but authorities said it is not terrorism related and was an isolated incident. Hospitals were alerted to potential mass casualty incident, but as only the suspect was shot, the alert was canceled. Guests and staff were evacuated, but some guests complained they were not told what was going on or what to do.
 
While it is legal to carry a firearm in a casino, persons who are asked to leave or disarm may be trespassed. Nearly every casino in Nevada including the Station Casino (Green Valley Ranch) properties prohibit guests from possessing firearms. Casino properties are generally considered non-permissive carry zones or gun free zones for this reason.

This is the first known defensive gun use in Nevada in 2019.