AUSTIN, Texas — Authorities in Austin have detained three juveniles following a series of at least 10 random shootings over the weekend that resulted in injuries to four individuals, according to city officials.
The suspects, driving stolen vehicles, targeted two fire stations, several apartment complexes, and residential homes in a wave of criminal activity that spanned from Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis reported that the spree involved both robberies and shootings.
The apprehension of two male teenagers, aged 15 and 17, occurred after a traffic stop involving a stolen vehicle led to a brief foot chase. A third juvenile suspect, also part of the fleeing group, was apprehended later on Sunday night at a gas station in Manor, approximately 15 miles northeast of Austin. Police have not released further details about this individual.
Chief Davis disclosed that the firearm used in the attacks had been previously stolen by the 15-year-old suspect. Additionally, the 17-year-old suspect had been sought in connection with a separate firearm theft incident.
In response to the threat, residents in a large section of southern Austin were advised to remain indoors on Sunday as authorities conducted their manhunt. Following the capture of two suspects, the shelter-in-place order was subsequently lifted.
Four victims were taken to hospitals, including one with critical injuries, officials said.
The suspects stole at least four vehicles as they traveled around the city, Davis said.
“We don’t have any specific motive that has been identified. In fact, these actions appear to be random,” Mayor Kirk Watson said.