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According to reports, Ruiz was specifically targeting two individuals over a social media feud when things spiraled out of control on June 8th.
Both Manuel Ruiz and one of the victims, Rodney Finley, were YouTubers. According to reports, the two had a long-standing online feud. Ruiz originally started his own YouTube channel and became known online as “Sin City Manny.” He built up an online reputation and name for himself, but that’s when things started to take a turn. Rodney Finley also decided to create a YouTube channel.
On his channel, he’d frequently take shots at Ruiz and Ruiz’s wife. The criticism was consistent, and Ruiz did not have a good response to the content.
Over time, Ruiz appeared to become increasingly angry over the content posted by Finley. Finley did not stop posting, though. In 2025, the social media feud spilled out in to the real-life streets of Las Vegas, and the police got involved. Reports show that Finley contacted the authorities in April and claimed Ruiz pushed him when the two made contact on Fremont Street. The incident did lead to criminal charges, and Ruiz was expected to appear in court for the battery charge just a few days prior to this recent incident.
In the most recent attack, Ruiz intentionally sought out Rodney Finley and his wife as they were traversing the Las Vegas strip. Ruiz started live-streaming before he found the couple in front of the Fountains of Bellagio. At that time, he started shooting. He shot at the victim and his wife seven times, all while countless witnesses stood by in shock and fear. Both victims passed away in the shooting. One day later, Ruiz turned himself in to the Henderson police station.
Authorities say that Ruiz is not denying the shooting but is saying that he acted in self-defense. Prosecutors are currently weighing whether to seek the death penalty in this case or not.
In Las Vegas, the death penalty can be leveraged against individuals who are convicted of first-degree murder or felony murder. In general, first-degree murder requires premeditation and intent, but felony murder only requires that the murder occurred during the commission of a dangerous felony.
For instance, if someone is intentionally trying to rob someone else and they accidentally kill them in the process, then that person can be convicted of felony murder and be subject to the death penalty.
If you are ever criminally implicated in someone else’s death, then it’s imperative that you seek out legal help as soon as possible. Even if the death penalty isn’t on the table in your case, you could still face very serious consequences if you get charged with a crime that led to a fatality.
Here at LV Criminal Defense, our team of attorneys can answer your legal questions and help you navigate your situation. Schedule a free call with us by leaving your contact information on our online form now.
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