Austin Hit by Multiple Random Shootings Over Weekend
Austin police have arrested three teenage suspects after a wave of shootings across the city injured four people and triggered emergency shelter-in-place warnings in several neighborhoods.
Authorities said the shootings took place between Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, with incidents reported in South and East Austin. Officials described the attacks as random, with victims, homes, apartment buildings, and even fire stations reportedly targeted during the violent spree.
One victim remains in critical condition, while the other injured individuals suffered non-life-threatening wounds.
Police Say Suspects Used Stolen Cars and Firearms
According to investigators, the suspects traveled through the city using multiple stolen vehicles while carrying out the shootings. Austin police said at least four vehicles were stolen during the incidents.
Two suspects, ages 15 and 17, were first detained after officers stopped a stolen vehicle. Police said the suspects attempted to flee before being captured. A third teenage suspect was later arrested following an additional search operation.
Investigators also revealed that one of the firearms used in the shootings had reportedly been stolen earlier. Officials believe the group was connected to several robberies before the shootings began.
Shelter-in-Place Orders Issued Across Austin
As police searched for the suspects, city officials issued temporary shelter-in-place alerts for parts of southern Austin due to public safety concerns. Residents were urged to remain indoors while officers tracked the suspects and investigated multiple shooting scenes.
The emergency order was later lifted after authorities confirmed the arrests.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said investigators have not identified a clear motive behind the attacks, adding that the shootings appeared to be random acts of violence.
Police continue to investigate the case and are asking anyone with additional information to contact authorities.
