A tragic nightclub shooting early on January 26, 2025, claimed one life and left eight others injured, prompting an active investigation by the Amarillo Police Department. The incident occurred in the 700 block of South Polk Street.
At approximately 2:05 a.m., multiple 911 calls reported gunfire outside the nightclub. Witnesses described a vehicle pulling up to the venue, with an individual exiting and firing a rifle into a crowd before fleeing in the same car.
Thanks to a vigilant citizen who followed the suspect’s vehicle and provided updates to authorities, Randall County Sheriff’s deputies intercepted the car near Hillside Road and Bell Street. Three individuals were detained and taken to the Amarillo Police Department’s Homicide Division for questioning.
The shooting resulted in nine people being injured. Six victims were transported to local hospitals by emergency responders, while three others arrived via private transportation. Tragically, 25-year-old John Love Louima succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The remaining victims are receiving treatment for various injuries.
The suspected shooter has been identified as 23-year-old Robert Kenney Knox of Amarillo. The driver of the vehicle, 21-year-old Nahryah Hilesta Ines Hayes, and a passenger, 22-year-old Britt Brinson Cave, were also apprehended. Knox and Hayes face charges of murder and eight counts of deadly conduct/discharge of a firearm, while Cave has been charged with public intoxication.
Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting was linked to an earlier altercation inside the nightclub. The suspects reportedly left the venue after the dispute but returned to carry out the attack. Authorities have recovered a firearm, shell casings, and other evidence connected to the crime.
The Amarillo Police Department’s Homicide Unit is urging witnesses, particularly anyone with video footage of the incident, to come forward. Detectives can be reached at 806-378-9468.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to piece together the events surrounding the shooting and to ensure justice for the victims and their families.