Rhino Simboli Obituary, Death: Suspect fatally shot by police has been identified.
Rhino Simboli Obituary, Death – Authorities have released new details about a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred overnight near Texas Tech University. According to the Texas Tech Police Department, the Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit has identified the deceased suspect as 63-year-old Rhino Simboli.
Simboli, who was originally from Ohio, reportedly had known connections to both Florida and Texas. The incident unfolded late Tuesday night in the area north of Jones AT\&T Stadium, specifically near Gate 3. Texas Tech Police said that officers encountered Simboli, who then opened fire on them. In response, officers returned fire. Simboli was pronounced dead at the scene.
At this time, authorities have not released additional details about the events that led up to the shooting, such as whether Simboli had any previous encounters with law enforcement, what brought him to the area, or if he had any specific motive. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and Texas Tech Police stated that further updates would be shared as more information becomes available.
The location of the shooting—close to a prominent part of the Texas Tech campus—likely drew quick response from university police. The proximity to Jones AT\&T Stadium, a major venue for university athletics, added urgency to the situation. It is not yet clear if any students, faculty, or members of the public were nearby when the gunfire occurred.
Texas Tech University officials have not issued any statements regarding campus safety or the presence of the suspect prior to the confrontation. At this point, no injuries to police officers or bystanders have been reported, and no charges have been mentioned, as the suspect is deceased.
The Texas Tech Police Department and the Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit are continuing their joint investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. This includes examining whether the officers involved followed proper procedures and reviewing any bodycam or surveillance footage that may exist. The identities of the officers involved have not yet been released, which is standard practice during early phases of an investigation into use of force incidents.
Authorities have not said whether Simboli had a criminal record or if he had been involved in any recent disturbances. His reasons for being in the Lubbock area, particularly on or near university grounds, remain unclear. Investigators will likely focus on his travel history, possible local contacts, and any signs of mental health issues or previous violent behavior.
As the investigation continues, the Lubbock community and Texas Tech University await more clarity. In the meantime, police are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
This incident adds to ongoing national discussions around law enforcement responses and the risks officers face in potentially volatile encounters. Updates are expected to be released in the coming days as authorities work to piece together the full story.
