A tragic incident in Reno, Nevada, has shocked the community as a 20-year-old man, Carson Gonzales, allegedly killed his mother and severely wounded her friend in a violent attack on April 19, 2025. The details of the attack, coupled with the bizarre statements made by the suspect, have left both authorities and the public searching for answers.

A Brutal and Unsettling Attack

The events unfolded at a residence on Powder Drive in northwest Reno, where Gonzales, according to court documents, attacked his mother, 52-year-old Carla Gonzales, during a verbal altercation. Carla Gonzales, a high school art teacher at Sparks High School, was found inside the home with what authorities describe as a nearly decapitated wound.

Angela Clay, a 46-year-old friend of Carla’s, was at the house when the attack began. She attempted to intervene and, in doing so, became the target of Gonzales’ violent outburst. Clay suffered multiple stab wounds, including a serious neck injury, and was found outside the house. She was rushed to a local hospital and underwent surgery. Thankfully, her condition has stabilized, and she is expected to survive the ordeal.

A Shocking Arrest

When law enforcement officers arrived at the scene, they found Gonzales in the garage, covered in blood and wearing only a tank top and socks. His actions and words immediately raised concerns among the officers present.

During the initial encounter, Gonzales reportedly said, “Holy fit looks like I murdered them,” before expressing disbelief, asking officers, “She’s not dead, is she? I can bring her back. She’s alive.” His confusion and shock at the events further complicated the investigation, leaving officers to question his mental state.

Gonzales was taken into custody and later questioned by investigators. In a bizarre and troubling police interview, he allegedly made an unsettling statement: “Trump killed my queen.” The comment left investigators puzzled, as they worked to determine whether it was a delusion or an attempt by Gonzales to deflect blame for his actions.

Charges Filed Against Gonzales

Carson Gonzales has been charged with open murder with a deadly weapon and battery with the use of a deadly weapon. The severity of the crime, coupled with the shocking nature of the attack, has left the Reno community grappling with disbelief. Authorities have not yet provided a definitive explanation for Gonzales’ actions but continue to investigate the motive behind the killings.

While the motive remains unclear, Gonzales’ statement to police about “Trump” and “the queen” has raised concerns about potential mental health issues. Investigators are working to determine if this remark is connected to a possible delusional belief system or if it was simply an incoherent attempt to avoid responsibility. Such statements are often examined closely in criminal investigations to understand the mental state of the suspect.

Mental Health and Domestic Violence: A Growing Concern

Cases involving severe violence often prompt deeper discussions about mental health and domestic violence. In Nevada, the Department of Health and Human Services provides resources to help those struggling with mental illness. The state’s Division of Public and Behavioral Health also works to improve mental health services and prevent domestic violence. For more information, you can visit their official website or the Nevada Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence for resources on domestic violence support.

While investigations continue, the community of Reno remains in shock, and the families of both victims are left to deal with the aftermath of an unthinkable tragedy. As more details emerge, the case is expected to garner widespread media attention and raise important questions about mental health, domestic violence, and the need for better support systems for individuals in crisis.

final thought

As Carson Gonzales faces legal proceedings, the focus will shift to uncovering more about the reasons behind his actions. The tragic loss of Carla Gonzales has left a family mourning, and Angela Clay’s recovery from severe injuries highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of extreme violence.

The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues, particularly in young adults, and the need for robust intervention programs to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.