Tragedy struck the Las Vegas fitness community and social media world on Thursday afternoon when local influencer and TikTok model Sammi Cristina was shot and killed during a deadly attack at the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) in the west valley.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) confirmed that Sammi, known online for her fitness content and modeling, was the victim who lost her life in the shocking gym shooting. She was just beginning to build a name for herself online, with over 13,000 Instagram followers under the username @sammi.cristina.
According to LVMPD, the shooting occurred around 1:30 p.m. at the LVAC located on N Rainbow Boulevard near Vegas Drive. A gunman reportedly entered the gym armed with a firearm and began firing multiple rounds at random.
Sheriff Andrew Walsh stated in a press briefing that several people sustained gunshot wounds during the chaos. Sammi Cristina was pronounced dead at the scene. Four others were transported to University Medical Center, with at least one in critical condition. Authorities confirmed later in the evening that the suspect was shot by responding officers and later died at the hospital.
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One eyewitness described the terrifying moment the gunfire erupted:
“I heard what sounded like weights dropping, but then I turned and saw him shooting,” the witness told FOX5. “His gun jammed, he started pacing in circles, and then just walked out. That’s when the cops got him.”
As of Friday morning, the motive behind the shooting remains unknown. LVMPD is continuing its investigation into the incident, which they are classifying as an officer-involved shooting. Authorities said no officers were injured.
Viewer videos showed the alleged shooter being apprehended outside the gym. Las Vegas Fire and Rescue confirmed that SWAT units were deployed and the building was cleared during what was described as an “active” scene.
LVAC Statement
LVAC released a statement expressing heartbreak over the tragedy:
“We are heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred today at our Northwest Club. Our prayers are with the victims, their families, our members, and our team. The club is temporarily closed as we support the LVMPD investigation. We will share updates as we have them.”
As of 7:30 p.m., Rainbow Boulevard reopened to traffic, though the gym parking lot remains closed to the public as the investigation continues.
Friends and followers have begun mourning Sammi Cristina online, sharing tributes, memories, and disbelief over her sudden death. Known for her vibrant personality and dedication to fitness, Sammi’s presence extended beyond social media—she was described by some as a “bright soul” who motivated others with her energy and strength.
Her death marks another painful reminder of the unpredictable violence that continues to haunt public spaces.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim Identified | Sammi Cristina, TikTok influencer and fitness model |
| Date of Incident | May 16, 2025 |
| Location | LVAC, 1700 block of N Rainbow Blvd, Las Vegas |
| Time | Around 1:30 p.m. |
| Fatalities | 2 (including shooter) |
| Injured | 4 hospitalized, one critical |
| Suspect Status | Shot by police, later died |
| Motive | Unknown |
| LVAC Statement | “Heartbroken… club temporarily closed” |
FAQs
Q: Who was Sammi Cristina?
A: Sammi Cristina was a social media influencer and fitness model from Las Vegas. She had about 13,000 followers on Instagram and frequently posted workout and modeling content.
Q: Was the shooter known to the victim?
A: As of now, no connection between the shooter and the victims has been reported.
Q: Is the LVAC gym still closed?
A: Yes, the gym remains temporarily closed as police continue to investigate the incident.