Police responded to a downtown Austin bar late Saturday night following reports of an individual unlawfully carrying a firearm. The situation escalated when the suspect brandished the weapon, prompting officers to open fire, resulting in the suspect’s death. Three additional individuals sustained injuries during the incident; however, it remains unclear whether these injuries were caused by gunfire. One of the injured is reported to be in critical condition.
The identity of the deceased suspect has not been disclosed. Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson held a news conference, revealing that officers confronted the suspect after he pointed his firearm towards them and innocent bystanders. Three Austin Police Department officers discharged their department-approved firearms in response, fatally injuring the suspect, with no harm to the officers.
Chief Henderson noted the injuries sustained by the three individuals and emphasized that a comprehensive investigation is underway. The Austin Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit, in collaboration with the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, is conducting a criminal investigation, while the Internal Affairs Unit of the APD is conducting a parallel administrative investigation. The incident occurred at an as-yet-unnamed bar on the 200 block of E 6th St in downtown Austin, an area known for its vibrant nightlife.
Carrying a firearm inside a bar is prohibited under the Texas penal code, as highlighted by the police. The entire incident was recorded by the officers’ body-worn cameras, and the footage will be released within 10 business days, in adherence to departmental policy.
Chief Henderson disclosed that the three involved officers, each possessing 9, 11, and 13 years of service with the APD, have been placed on “administrative duty” as part of the standard protocol following officer-involved shootings. The dual investigations—criminal and administrative—will be pursued simultaneously to ensure a thorough examination of the incident.
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Authorities encourage witnesses to provide any pertinent information through austincrimestoppers.org.