FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — A devastating murder-suicide that shook a Fort Lauderdale neighborhood has claimed a third life, authorities confirmed Thursday. Ryan Kruse, 24, who had been critically wounded in the April 4 shooting, succumbed to his injuries Thursday morning while hospitalized.
The shooting occurred in the 4500 block of Twin Lakes Boulevard and originally left two people dead at the scene — 24-year-old Michelle Rodriguez and 28-year-old Carlos Reyes, the suspected gunman. According to Fort Lauderdale Police, Reyes entered the residence and opened fire, shooting Rodriguez and Kruse before turning the weapon on himself.
Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene. Reyes, initially found alive, was transported to the hospital but later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Kruse had remained in critical condition for nearly a week before passing away.
The tragic sequence of events has left the community reeling, with neighbors describing the incident as deeply disturbing and heartbreaking. The residential neighborhood, normally quiet and peaceful, was rattled by the heavy police presence and the grim realization of what had transpired inside the home.
Authorities have not yet released further details on the relationship between the three individuals involved, and the motive for the shooting remains under investigation. Police say they are continuing to examine all circumstances surrounding the case and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation continues, family and friends of the victims are left grappling with an unthinkable loss. Tributes have poured in on social media for both Rodriguez and Kruse, described by those who knew them as kind, bright, and full of promise.
Support services have been made available to those affected, and local leaders are encouraging the community to reach out for mental health assistance if needed during this difficult time.
This heartbreaking tragedy serves as yet another reminder of the lasting toll of violence — not just on those directly involved, but on entire communities.