The Amarillo Police Department's Homicide Unit, in coordination with the Potter County District Attorney's Office, has upgraded the charges against Robert Kenney Knox and Nahryah Hilesta Ines Hayes in connection with the deadly mass shooting that occurred in downtown Amarillo. The two now face eight counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Mass Shooting, in addition to the original murder charge.
Details of the Incident
The shooting took place in the early hours of Sunday, January 26, 2025, in the 700 block of S. Polk St. At approximately 2:05 AM, Amarillo Emergency Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire outside a nightclub.
Eyewitnesses stated that a vehicle approached the club's entrance, and an unidentified suspect exited, firing a rifle into a large crowd before getting back into the vehicle and fleeing the scene.
A quick-thinking citizen followed the suspect’s vehicle, providing critical information to 911 dispatchers. This led to Randall County Sheriff’s deputies locating and stopping the vehicle near Hillside and Bell St. Three suspects were taken into custody and brought in for questioning.
Victims and Medical Response
A total of nine people were shot in the attack. John Love Louima, 25, succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. His family has been notified. The remaining eight victims are receiving medical care at area hospitals.
First responders, including Amarillo police officers, firefighters, and AMR paramedics, arrived quickly to administer life-saving medical aid to multiple victims at the scene. Some victims were transported by ambulance, while others arrived at hospitals in private vehicles.
Suspects and Charges
Investigators identified the shooter as Robert Kenney Knox, 23, and the driver as Nahryah Hilesta Ines Hayes, 21, both of Amarillo. A third suspect, Britt Brinson Cave, 22, was also in the vehicle.
Robert Kenney Knox – Charged with murder and eight counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Mass Shooting
Nahryah Hilesta Ines Hayes – Charged with murder and eight counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Mass Shooting
Britt Brinson Cave – Charged with public intoxication
Authorities recovered a firearm, shell casings, and other evidence connected to the shooting.
Ongoing Investigation
Early findings suggest the shooting stemmed from an altercation inside the nightclub before the suspects left and later returned in the vehicle. However, police emphasize that much of the investigation remains ongoing as they work to piece together the full story.
The Amarillo Police Department's Homicide Unit is urging the public to assist in the investigation. Anyone with video footage or additional information is asked to contact (806) 378-9468.
Community Response
Authorities commend the courageous actions of the citizen who followed the suspect’s vehicle, helping law enforcement quickly locate and apprehend the individuals involved.
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