A Las Vegas street shooting streamed live on YouTube has sparked nationwide outrage and debate after a content creator known online as Finny Da Legend was gunned down alongside his wife. The suspect, another YouTuber named Manuel Ruiz, is now claiming self-defense in the shocking incident that unfolded near the Bellagio fountains on Sunday, June 9.
The Livestream That Captured the Violence
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the incident stemmed from a long-brewing social media feud between Ruiz and Finley, whose real name is Rodney Finley, 44, and his wife, Tanisha Finley, 43. The now-viral video, captured on Rodney’s YouTube livestream titled “Finny Da Legend”, shows Ruiz walking toward the couple before suddenly opening fire. Multiple gunshots ring out, and chaos ensues near the busy tourist hotspot on Las Vegas Boulevard.
Ruiz’s Side of the Story
The following day, Ruiz turned himself in to Henderson police and attempted to explain his actions. He told detectives that he had “accidentally” run into the couple and felt threatened when Finley allegedly reached toward his waistband and said, “What up cuz?”
Ruiz claimed he feared Finley had a weapon, prompting him to open fire. He also said Tanisha was holding a “shiny black object” which he believed was a weapon, justifying why he shot her as well. However, police noted no weapons were recovered from the couple or the surrounding scene. Despite initially speaking to detectives, Ruiz requested an attorney after investigators presented him with the video evidence showing him approaching the couple and firing the weapon, according to News3LV.
Evidence, Surveillance & Arrest
Authorities said they pieced together footage from casino surveillance to track Ruiz fleeing the area and entering the Paris Las Vegas valet area. There, he allegedly discarded his hat and shirt. A 9mm handgun was later found hidden between a wall and a fence nearby.
Ruiz faces multiple felony charges, and police are continuing their investigation into both the online feud and the events leading up to the shooting.
Conclusion
The chilling moment when a YouTuber claimed self-defense in a Las Vegas Strip shooting has reignited conversations around livestream culture, online feuds, and personal safety. As police continue to build their case, many are left wondering if this is just another example of real-world violence born from virtual beef.