UPDATE - NOVEMBER 21, 2025:
A Reno woman has been sentenced to life in prison with eligibility for parole after 38 years for her role in a 2022 shooting outside the Grand Sierra Resort that killed 19-year-old Elaundra Thomas and injured Jeremiah Sesepasara.
According to the Washoe County District Attorney's Office, Carleja Royal was convicted of first-degree murder and attempted murder.
The District Attorney's Office says the shooting occurred after the woman waited in her car for more than an hour outside the GSR pool, watching for the victims.
Earlier, she had followed the group into the casino club area for six minutes before returning to her car, where her girlfriend was waiting. She repositioned the car closer to the breezeway to observe the victims.
When Thomas, Sesepasara, and their group walked to their cars, she drove past and fired ten shots, striking both individuals.
Officers later arrested the Royal, who had a concealed firearm in her waistband and two outstanding felony warrants from California. The entire incident was captured on casino surveillance footage.
During sentencing, Chief Deputy District Attorney Nicole Hicks said, “The family’s grief is immeasurable, and they continue to bear the unbearable weight of a young life stolen at just 19 years old. Although nothing can restore what was taken, accountability is the only justice this family has left.”
Judge Lynne Jones presided over the case and imposed the maximum sentence.
ORIGINAL STORY - AUGUST 27, 2022:
Reno Police say one person died from being shot around 1:30 in the morning on August 27, 2022.
The Reno Police Department responded to a report of a shooting that occurred in the area of Grand Sierra Resort.
When officers arrived, they found two men with gunshot wounds.
Both were taken to a nearby hospital and, despite lifesaving efforts, one of the men died from his injuries.
Detectives from the Robbery/Homicide unit took over the investigation from there and arrested 22-year-old Carleja Royal from Reno.
Carleja was charged with open murder with a deadly weapon as well as battery with a deadly weapon.
This case is still being investigated.
Reno Police ask that anyone who may have information contact them at 775-334-212 or they can contact Secret Witness at 775-322-4900.
Police say two men were shot and one died from their injuries.
