Austin police arrested three juveniles believed to be involved in 12 shooting incidents across the city. These events injured four people and led to a shelter-in-place order in South Austin.
Suspects Arrested
Austin Police Department Chief Lisa Davis announced that a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old were taken into custody following a series of shootings starting late Saturday and continuing into Sunday. A third suspect, a 16-year-old male, was later detained by the Manor Police Department after fleeing from a vehicle.
We have two suspects in custody.
Davis stated during a press conference.
Details of the Incident
The incidents involved firing at apartment complexes, homes, pedestrians, and fire stations. Davis reported that one fire station was shot at twice, and a fire truck was hit.
Surveillance images released by the police show a suspect connected to the shootings. Authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The 17-year-old had a warrant for a firearm theft from the same store where a 15-year-old allegedly stole another gun. Police revealed the suspects had stolen multiple vehicles during the spree, including a Hyundai and a Mazda.
Injuries and Response
Austin-Travis County EMS Chief Robert Luckritz shared that emergency responders treated victims at four separate scenes. One person was critically injured and stabilized, while three others had non-life-threatening wounds.
Davis mentioned that the shootings mostly occurred in South Austin and appeared random.
Authorities had initially advised residents to shelter in place while searching for the suspects. This order was lifted after capturing two suspects, although the search continued for a third person.
Investigation and Police Efforts
The investigation started with reports of a stolen vehicle and firearm from an apartment complex. As shootings increased, officers worked to link the incidents across various locations.
Davis explained that the investigation was complex due to the numerous crime scenes and stolen vehicles.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The coordinated response was praised by Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, crediting local and regional law enforcement agencies, including the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Manor Police Department, and Texas Department of Public Safety.
Davis emphasized the need for license plate reader technology to quickly connect shootings and stolen vehicles.
Contact Information
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