True Crime Garage: Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre – Part 1

Episode Release Date: February 17, 2025

Hosts: Nick and the Captain

Introduction

In this gripping episode of True Crime Garage, hosts Nick and the Captain delve into the harrowing case of the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre. Set in the serene city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, this episode meticulously unpacks the events of February 10, 1990, when a seemingly ordinary morning turned into a nightmare. Through detailed discussions, insightful analysis, and the recounting of a chilling 911 call, the hosts aim to shed light on one of the most disturbing unsolved cases in the state's history.

The Incident: A Nightmarish Morning

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of the tragic events that unfolded at 1201 East Amador Avenue in Las Cruces. On February 10, 1990, two gunmen stormed the bowling alley, leading to a brutal robbery that escalated into a mass shooting and arson.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “The call comes in at precisely 8:33am… Melissa Repass, whose bravery and quick thinking, despite having been shot several times, called 911 and without doubt prevented further loss of life in a case that would later be dubbed the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre.” [07:49]

Detailed Timeline of Events

Early Morning Preparations

Stephanie Cenac, the day manager and daughter of the bowling alley owner, arrived early to prepare for the day. Accompanied by her 12-year-old daughter, Melissa Repass, and Melissa's friend, Amy Hauser, they intended to oversee the bowling alley's daycare services.

The Robbery and Massacre

Shortly after 8:00 am, Steve Cenac, Stephanie's brother, arrived to retrieve his backpack. He noticed the main door was unlocked, a detail he later reported to authorities. Within minutes, two armed men entered the facility, took hostages, and demanded access to the safe. The gunmen proceeded to steal approximately $4,000 to $5,000 before turning the scene into a hellish environment.

Notable Quote:

Captain: “We're looking at the motive as robbery… for some reason or other they decided to rid themselves of any witnesses.” [48:25]

As the situation progressed, another employee, Steve Tehran, along with his two young daughters, entered the bowling alley and tragically became victims themselves. All seven individuals present were shot multiple times, and the perpetrators set the office ablaze before fleeing the scene.

The Chilling 911 Call

One of the most disturbing segments of the episode is the reenactment of the actual 911 call made by Melissa Repass. Despite being a 12-year-old who had already been shot multiple times, Melissa's call provided crucial information that enabled emergency services to respond swiftly.

Notable Quote:

Melissa Repass: “Please help me… They told us all to get down. They shot me five times.” [03:26 - 07:05]

This call highlights Melissa's incredible bravery and resilience in a dire situation, as she attempted to save her own life and those around her.

Investigation Efforts: A Massive Manhunt

Following the massacre, law enforcement launched an extensive manhunt involving multiple agencies, including the Las Cruces City Police, State Police, Sheriff's Department, University Police, US Customs, Border Patrol, and the FBI. Utilizing six aircraft and helicopters, authorities set up roadblocks and scrutinized countless vehicles in an effort to capture the elusive gunmen. Despite these efforts, the perpetrators evaded capture, leaving the case unsolved for decades.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “Police set up 10 roadblocks in and out of the city… six aircraft and helicopters were used, this including a U.S. customs Blackhawk helicopter. But the suspects successfully eluded capture.” [34:42 - 35:47]

Suspect Descriptions and Leading Insights

Eyewitness Steve Cenac provided the first breakthrough by describing the two men he witnessed during his brief stop at the bowling alley. The descriptions painted a stark contrast between the two suspects:

• Older Suspect:

  • Hispanic male
  • Approximately 45-50 years old
  • 5’6” in height
  • Weighing around 135-240 pounds
  • Black hair combed back, brown eyes

• Younger Suspect:

  • Hispanic male
  • Approximately 29-30 years old
  • 5’10” in height
  • Weighing around 170 pounds
  • Dark complexion

Despite these detailed descriptions and composite sketches released to the public, the elusive nature of the perpetrators meant they remained at large.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “The two gunmen had a considerable age discrepancy… one is approximately 29 or 30 years old, and the other is around 45 to 50 years old.” [38:20 - 39:20]

Media Coverage and Public Impact

The Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre received national attention when it was featured on the iconic show Unsolved Mysteries in April 1990. The episode, titled “No One Spared,” aimed to generate leads by showcasing composite sketches and urging public assistance. While the segment spurred numerous tips and interviews with over 312 potential suspects, none yielded fruitful results.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “The case was also featured on everyone’s favorite old show, Unsolved Mysteries… It was really just the wanted segment, flashing those composite sketches of the two suspects and asking the public for help.” [50:30 - 52:56]

Documentary and Renewed Interest

Decades later, filmmaker Charlie Minn released a documentary titled A Nightmare in Las Cruces around the 20th anniversary of the massacre. This film reinvigorated interest in the case, leading to new tips and bringing closure to some family members of the victims.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “This documentary was released around the 20th anniversary of the massacre… Since its release, more tips have been reported to the local police.” [53:33 - 55:32]

Analysis: Premeditation and Execution

Nick and the Captain analyze the meticulous planning evident in the massacre. The perpetrators demonstrated intimate knowledge of the bowling alley's operations, timing, and security measures, suggesting premeditation. Their swift execution—from entering the facility, controlling the hostages, stealing the money, to eliminating witnesses and setting the office on fire—indicates a cold-blooded and calculated approach to ensure no evidence or survivors could impede their escape.

Notable Quote:

Captain: “This is a very perfect case study for indiscriminate homicide robbery… they had a mission to carry out and let's go for it. A, B, C, D, and E. And then we're out of there.” [32:02 - 34:01]

Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2

As the episode concludes, Nick and the Captain reflect on the enduring mystery of the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre. They emphasize the need for ongoing vigilance and hope that renewed interest, through documentaries and true crime discussions, will eventually lead to justice for the victims.

Notable Quote:

Nick: “A lot more to dive into tomorrow. And until then, be good, be kind, and don't litter.” [55:32 - End]

This episode of True Crime Garage not only recounts a tragic event but also serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of truth in unsolved cases. By combining meticulous research with engaging storytelling, Nick and the Captain offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre and its lasting impact on the community.