Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Teen girl shot during weekend party near Moon Rocks

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office detectives are seeking witness accounts from a weekend party near Moon Rocks late Saturday, December 26, 2020.

Deputies initially responded to an area hospital around 1:15 a.m. December 27, 2020 after medical personnel reported treating a 17-year-old girl with a gunshot wound to the thigh. The victim said she was attending a party at “Big Wash” located southwest of the Moon Rocks recreation area. The victim stepped away from the large gathering for a moment when she was struck. It is believed somebody at the party discharged a weapon into the dark not knowing the victim was in the area.

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating this incident as a probable accidental shooting, and currently do not believe there was intent to harm anybody.  

The teen victim learned of the party through social media, and the party was attended by more than 100 people. Since the Memorial Day holiday weekend Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives have investigated several violent incidents stemming from parties in the Moon Rocks area. As we head into New Year’s Eve – the Sheriff’s Office would like to warn residents about attending parties and gatherings where the host is not immediately known. Per current COVID-19 regulations, public gatherings are restricted to 50 people or 25% of fire code capacity.

Anyone with information into this recent weekend shooting is asked to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. Reference case number: WC20-5450.

Photo: Big Wash, party location highlighted

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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