AT A GLANCE
- Three juveniles were taken into custody after at least 10 random shootings across Austin.
- Four people were injured, including one person listed with critical injuries.
- Police said the suspects used stolen vehicles and stolen firearms during the shootings.
- Authorities said no specific motive has been identified.
Three Juveniles Arrested After Random Austin Shootings Left Four Injured
Three teenagers were taken into custody aftera string of random shootings across Austin left four people injured and led city officials to issue a shelter in place order for part of South Austin over the weekend.
The shootings happened from Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning, according to Austin officials. Police said the suspects traveled through the city in stolen vehicles and fired at multiple locations, including two fire stations, apartment buildings and homes.
Authorities said the incidents also included robberies and vehicle thefts.
Police Say Stolen Vehicles And Firearms Were Used
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said two boys, ages 15 and 17, were arrested after officers pulled over a stolen vehicle and the suspects attempted to run. A third juvenile who had also been inside the vehicle ran from officers and was later detained Sunday night at a gas station in Manor, about 15 miles northeast of Austin.
Police said the firearm used in the shootings had previously been stolen by the 15 year old. The 17 year old was also wanted in connection with a separate firearm theft. Officials said the suspects stole at least four vehicles while moving across the city.
Four victims were taken to hospitals after the shootings. Officials said one person suffered critical or serious injuries, while others had injuries described as less severe.
The city temporarily ordered residents in a large part of South Austin to shelter in place while officers searched for the suspects. The order was lifted after two suspects were taken into custody. Officials later said the third suspect had been detained and there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Officials Say No Motive Has Been Identified
Authorities have not released the names of the juveniles because of their ages. Police said the investigation remains active, and officials have not identified a clear motive.
“We don’t have any specific motive that has been identified. In fact, these actions appear to be random,” Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said.
