El Paso, Texas — Authorities have identified the suspect in a deadly shooting that occurred in central El Paso on Wednesday afternoon, September 24, 2025, resulting in three fatalities and leaving one person in critical condition. The El Paso Police Department has confirmed that 28-year-old Uriel Ontiveros is the suspected perpetrator in the tragedy, which unfolded around 2 p.m. on the 1000 block of N. Raynor.

Details of the Deadly Shooting

According to El Paso Police, Mia Molina, 21, Victoria Whitman, 27, and Uriel Ontiveros, the alleged shooter, lost their lives during the incident. Molina, a rising model who had been set to walk at El Paso Fashion Week in November, was confirmed dead at the scene, along with Whitman. Ontiveros was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, which police have determined to be the cause of his death.

A 59-year-old man, whose identity has not been released, also sustained gunshot wounds in the attack and remains in critical condition. Officers arrived at the residence to find all four individuals suffering from gunshot injuries. First aid was provided on the scene by police officers until paramedics arrived and transported all four victims to a local hospital.

Victim Profiles and Impact on the Community

Among the victims, Mia Molina stood out as a rising star in the fashion world. Molina, a former contestant on Top Model USA, had been preparing for an exciting debut at the upcoming El Paso Fashion Week in November. Roberto Chavez, the director of El Paso Fashion Week, confirmed that Mia had been eagerly preparing to take the runway this year, and her death has shaken the local fashion industry and beyond.

Chavez described her as a bright young talent who was poised to make an impact in the fashion community, saying, “Mia was not just a model, she was a force of nature. She was kind, humble, and always professional. This tragedy is not just a loss for her family, but for the entire El Paso community, and the fashion industry as a whole.”

Victoria Whitman, the second victim, was a close friend of Molina and also involved in the fashion scene. Whitman was known for her involvement in local events and was described by friends and colleagues as someone who brought energy and positivity to everything she did. Her death, alongside Molina’s, has left a void in the local community that will be hard to fill.

The tragic event has also deeply affected the local neighborhood, where residents and neighbors are in shock over the senselessness of the act. El Paso has long been known for its tight-knit community, and the loss of these three individuals is felt by many.

Investigation and Authorities’ Response

El Paso Police are actively investigating the shooting, and while Uriel Ontiveros has been confirmed as the primary suspect, they are still working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have confirmed that the shooting took place within a residential setting, but have not yet disclosed any further details about the relationships between the victims and Ontiveros.

Officers have indicated that Ontiveros shot the three victims before turning the gun on himself, though they have yet to determine the exact motive for the shooting. Investigators are working diligently to gather all available evidence, including speaking with potential witnesses and examining forensic evidence from the scene.

Investigators have also urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could be helpful in piecing together what led to the tragedy. Those with information can contact the El Paso Police Department directly at 915-832-4400, or they can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 915-566-8477 (TIPS).

Community Reaction and Tributes

The sudden loss of Mia Molina, Victoria Whitman, and Uriel Ontiveros has left the El Paso community devastated. Tributes have poured in from friends, colleagues, and even rival cities’ supporters who have expressed their shock at the horrific act. Many local community members have taken to social media to offer condolences to the families of the victims, with #JusticeForMia, #RememberingMiaMolina, and #RIPVictoriaWhitman trending in the days following the tragedy.

Molina’s family and friends have expressed their sorrow through social media posts, and El Paso’s fashion community has announced plans for a tribute event in her honor. The family has asked for privacy during this time but has expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received.

Local residents have also expressed their disbelief that a tragic event like this could occur in their community. One resident, who lives near the scene of the shooting, said, “This is something you hear about on the news, but never expect to happen right in your neighborhood. It’s heartbreaking.”

Conclusion: A Community Grieves and Seeks Justice

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community of El Paso remains in mourning over the loss of three lives. The tragic deaths of Mia Molina, Victoria Whitman, and Uriel Ontiveros have left a lasting impact on the local fashion scene, the families of the victims, and the wider El Paso community.

Authorities are committed to uncovering the full truth behind the shooting and providing justice for the victims. While the motive remains unclear, investigators continue to piece together the events leading to this tragic incident.

As police search for answers and continue their investigation, the El Paso community continues to rally around the victims’ families, offering support, condolences, and tributes in a show of unity during this difficult time.