Austin, Texas — A tragic shooting at a Target store in Austin has left three people dead and several others injured, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement. Authorities confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and is now in custody, bringing an end to a tense situation that shook the local community.
Incident Overview
According to the Austin Police Department, the shooting occurred late Tuesday afternoon inside a busy Target store located in North Austin. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing shoppers rushing to escape the store. Officers responded within minutes, evacuating the building and securing the area.
Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon stated that the suspect was apprehended without further incident. “This is a heartbreaking day for our city. We extend our condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence,” Chacon said during a press briefing.
Victims and Injuries
Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Several others were transported to nearby hospitals with varying degrees of injuries, though officials have not yet released the exact number or the victims’ identities. Police said family notifications are underway, and more information will be shared once those processes are complete.
Eyewitness Accounts
Shoppers described the terrifying moments as chaos unfolded.
“I was in the electronics section when I heard loud bangs. People started screaming and running toward the exits. I grabbed my child and ran without looking back,” said Maria Lopez, a local resident.
Another witness, David Hernandez, said he saw the suspect walking through the aisles before the shooting began. “It felt unreal. One minute I’m shopping, the next there’s panic everywhere,” he recalled.
Suspect in Custody
Police confirmed that the suspect, whose name has not yet been released, is an adult male. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack. Authorities are also reviewing store security footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the sequence of events.
Chief Chacon noted that there is no ongoing threat to the public, as the suspect was apprehended at the scene. Federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are assisting with the investigation.
Community Reaction
The shooting has left Austin residents in shock. City officials have expressed outrage and sadness over the violence. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson released a statement calling the incident “an unthinkable tragedy that reminds us of the urgent need to address gun violence in our communities.”
Local leaders are urging residents to donate blood to help the injured and support the victims’ families through verified relief efforts.
Target’s Response
Target Corporation issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and confirming cooperation with law enforcement. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Austin community. We are fully cooperating with police as they investigate this senseless act,” the statement read.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are asking anyone with video footage or information related to the shooting to contact the Austin Police Department’s tip line. Officials have not ruled out holding a public vigil in the coming days.
The tragedy in Austin adds to a growing list of mass shootings in the United States, intensifying calls from advocacy groups and citizens for stricter gun control measures.
