A 20-year-old Las Vegas woman has pleaded guilty in connection with a 2025 shooting death that occurred during a late-night photo session involving firearms, according to court records and grand jury testimony.
Prosecutors say the case involves a dispute over how the defendant and the victim defined their relationship, as well as a shooting that took place while photographs were being taken with a firearm.
Allysandra Blea admitted in court this week to charges related to the death of 23-year-old Mark Gaughan. The incident occurred in August 2025 at a residence in Las Vegas during a gathering where photos were being taken using a Polaroid camera.
According to prosecutors, Blea pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and kidnapping charges after initially facing a murder charge.
She is scheduled to be sentenced on July 29.
Incident
Police said officers responded to a call reporting a shooting in the 1000 block of Nassau Drive around 4:47 a.m. on August 23, 2025.
When authorities arrived, they found Gaughan lying outside the residence with a gunshot wound to the neck. He was transported for medical attention but was later pronounced dead at the scene.
Blea reportedly placed the 911 call and described the shooting as accidental, according to law enforcement statements cited in court records.
Photo Session
Court testimony described a photo session in which Gaughan was taking Polaroid pictures of Blea and another individual while they posed in themed clothing, including costumes and props.
A witness told investigators that the group was staging images inside and outside the home, including scenes meant to resemble hunting imagery using props and a deer head mounted inside the residence.
According to testimony, Gaughan was handling the camera when the final images were taken and was standing close to the defendant when the shooting occurred.
Investigation
Investigators reviewed statements from multiple witnesses, including individuals present in the home at the time. One person told police they had experience with firearms and had previously ensured the weapon was cleared earlier in the evening.
Court records indicate that there was confusion about the handling and reassembly of the firearm before the shooting occurred.
Prosecutors also referenced online posts attributed to Blea showing an interest in firearms and staged photography involving guns. These materials were introduced as part of the broader investigation into intent and behavior.
Statements
According to grand jury transcripts, Blea expressed frustration about being referred to as a girlfriend by the victim. Witnesses testified that she said she did not view the relationship in that way.
A friend present during the incident told investigators that the two had been spending time together but were not formally dating, describing their relationship as informal.
Defense attorneys characterized some of the defendant’s online posts involving firearms as “dark humor,” according to court filings.
Charges
Blea originally faced a murder charge but accepted a plea agreement that reduced the case to involuntary manslaughter and kidnapping.
Prosecutors alleged that she unlawfully restrained or controlled the victim during the incident that ultimately led to his death.
She remains in custody pending sentencing.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 23, 2025 | Shooting occurs during photo session in Las Vegas |
| Same morning | Police respond; victim pronounced dead |
| 2025–2026 | Investigation and grand jury proceedings |
| Recent | Defendant pleads guilty to reduced charges |
| July 29 | Sentencing scheduled |
Context
Cases involving firearms and social gatherings often hinge on intent, weapon handling, and the actions of all individuals present. In this case, investigators examined witness accounts, digital activity, and the sequence of events leading up to the discharge of the weapon.
Legal outcomes in such cases can depend heavily on whether the court finds evidence of intent, recklessness, or accidental discharge under state law.
The plea agreement reflects a resolution short of trial, though sentencing will determine the final legal consequences.
The guilty plea entered by Allysandra Blea brings a partial resolution to a case that began as a social gathering and ended in a fatal shooting. With sentencing scheduled for late July, the court will now determine punishment based on the circumstances outlined in witness testimony and investigative findings.
FAQs
What was the plea?
She pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and kidnapping.
When did the shooting happen?
The shooting occurred on August 23, 2025.
What was happening at the time?
A photo session involving Polaroid pictures and firearms.
Did the victim die at the scene?
Yes, he was pronounced dead after being shot in the neck.
When is sentencing scheduled?
Sentencing is scheduled for July 29.
