by Arrest Made in VASA Fitness Center shooting
By [Author Name]
Indianapolis, AU – The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has provided additional information following an arrest made on Monday in connection with the VASA Fitness Center shooting that took place earlier this month.
According to previous reports, a 20-year-old man named Steve Valdez-Rivera was taken into custody and preliminarily charged with aggravated battery, battery with a deadly weapon, and criminal recklessness. The incident occurred on February 6, when a gunfight broke out at the gym located on the west side of Indianapolis, resulting in multiple injuries.
Upon receiving a call about an active shooter, officers from the northwest district of IMPD rushed to the scene at VASA Fitness Center. They discovered two individuals inside the facility with gunshot wounds – a 16-year-old who was shot in the ankle and another man who was shot in the right calf.
According to court documents filed on Tuesday, surveillance footage revealed that Valdez-Rivera entered the gym on the evening of February 6. After using some gym equipment, an argument ensued between Valdez-Rivera and a group of three individuals. As Valdez-Rivera left the premises, the group followed him. When he reached the front doors, Valdez-Rivera allegedly pulled out a handgun and fired at the group. In response, one of the group members also drew a handgun and exchanged gunfire with Valdez-Rivera.
During the investigation, officers collected bullet fragments and cartridges from the scene. They also interviewed multiple witnesses, many of whom stated that they heard gunshots but did not witness the actual shooting. One witness described one of the guns used as an “Al Pacino-style gun.”
In interviews with the victims, it was revealed that the 16-year-old was walking through the gym with family members when the shots rang out. He attempted to flee but found himself unable to move. The second victim, who was working out at the time, saw everyone running and also tried to escape but was shot near the entrance.
Valdez-Rivera was apprehended without incident on Monday morning in Indianapolis. Several firearms were seized from his bedroom and another room in the house. However, when police attempted to interview him, Valdez-Rivera immediately requested legal representation.
As the investigation continues, IMPD is working to gather more evidence, including surveillance footage from nearby businesses and restaurants to track the movements of the individuals involved after the shooting.
The VASA Fitness Center shooting has shocked the community, with witnesses describing scenes of chaos and panic. While arguments had reportedly occurred at the gym before, nothing of this magnitude had ever taken place. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for increased vigilance and security measures to ensure the safety of individuals in public spaces.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
