Man Fatally Shot in Buffalo Wild Wings Parking Lot Crossfire

Idaho man convicted of first-degree murder in shooting death of innocent bystander

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Brian Moreno, 25, was convicted by a jury of first-degree murder with a gang enhancement for the 2022 shooting death of 23-year-old Joe Flores in the parking lot of a Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in Nampa, Idaho. Flores was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of a gang dispute between two rival groups.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of gang violence and the tragic impact it can have on innocent members of the community. It also raises questions about public safety measures and de-escalation tactics that could be implemented to prevent such senseless acts of violence.

The details

According to court documents, cellphone video from the scene showed someone telling Moreno to get a gun before the shooting occurred. When police arrived, they found Flores on the ground with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene, while another man suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Months later, Moreno was arrested along with five other individuals in connection with Flores' murder. Moreno was the only one charged with first-degree murder, while the other defendants faced charges such as aiding and abetting and rioting.

  • The shooting occurred on September 1, 2022.
  • Moreno was arrested months later in connection with Flores' murder.
  • Moreno's trial resulted in a first-degree murder conviction on an unspecified date.
  • Moreno's sentencing is scheduled for May 8.

The players

Brian Moreno

A 25-year-old man convicted of first-degree murder with a gang enhancement for the shooting death of Joe Flores.

Joe Flores

A 23-year-old man who was fatally shot in the Buffalo Wild Wings parking lot while an innocent bystander caught in a gang-related crossfire.

Pedro Navarro Jr.

A 21-year-old man charged with aiding and abetting first-degree murder, rioting, and aiding and abetting aggravated assault in connection with Flores' death.

Lazaro Vela

A 19-year-old man charged with attempted first-degree murder in connection with the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Flores was an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire of a gang dispute.”

— Nampa Police Department (The Idaho Statesman)

“Flores had a love for trucks and the outdoors, and he always found the good in others.”

— Flores' family (Obituary)

What’s next

Moreno's sentencing is scheduled for May 8, where he could face a lengthy prison sentence for his conviction on first-degree murder charges with a gang enhancement.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for continued efforts to address gang violence and protect innocent members of the community from being caught in the crossfire. It also highlights the importance of de-escalation tactics and public safety measures to prevent such senseless acts of violence.