Austin law enforcement officials reported that two suspects were arrested following a sequence of 12 shooting incidents that occurred across south and east Austin on Saturday and into early Sunday.
Police identified the two individuals in custody as a 15-year-old male and a 17-year-old male. Authorities said the younger juvenile had stolen a gun from a store on Saturday, while the older juvenile had an outstanding warrant related to a theft of a gun from the same store.
Across the dozen incidents, four people were struck by gunfire. One victim sustained serious injuries and three others suffered minor injuries, according to police statements.
As the events unfolded, the suspects reportedly stole more than four vehicles while moving through Austin, law enforcement officials said. Citing the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, police added that when officers apprehended the two juveniles a third young Hispanic male ran from a vehicle at the scene and was not detained at that time.
Officials also described the variety of locations targeted in the shootings. Two of the incidents involved gunfire aimed at separate fire stations; in one of those instances a truck was struck. Other incidents involved shots fired at residential buildings.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the department does not yet know the motives behind the shootings. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding each of the 12 incidents, and the probe remains active, officials said.
Authorities have not provided further details on the status of the third person who ran from the vehicle or any additional charges beyond the information about the stolen firearm and outstanding warrant tied to the two juveniles in custody. The investigation, including motive and whether more suspects are involved, is ongoing.
Context and next steps
Police continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses in south and east Austin as they work to piece together the sequence of events across the 12 shooting incidents. Officials emphasized that motives are unknown and that the investigation remains open.