An Austin Police Department (APD) officer was tragically killed and another injured in a shootout in South Austin. The incident, which also resulted in the deaths of two civilians and the suspect, marks the first time in a decade that an APD officer has been killed on duty. The Austin community has expressed deep grief and support for the officers and their families. The Austin Police Department will conduct investigations into the incident, and body-worn camera footage is available. This tragic event highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and their impact on communities. NewsBreak Original reported
In a devastating incident that occurred early Saturday morning, a police officer from the Austin Police Department (APD) lost his life, while another officer sustained injuries during a shootout in South Austin. The tragic event unfolded when a 911 call was made just before 3 a.m., reporting a stabbing at a residence on Bernoulli Drive. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered two injured individuals along with the suspect inside the home. A third victim, who had managed to escape, informed the police that the suspect was armed with a knife. This victim was subsequently rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.
SWAT officers were summoned to the location at around 3:06 a.m., as the armed suspect was barricaded inside the residence and holding two hostages. The SWAT team arrived at approximately 4:11 a.m. and made a second forced entry into the house. As soon as they entered, the suspect opened fire, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. According to Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson, who provided a detailed account of the incident to the media, the officers were struck during the shootout and radioed for help at around 4:15 a.m. Tragically, one officer succumbed to his injuries, while the other remains in stable condition. The suspect was also killed during the confrontation.
Inside the residence, two additional fatalities were discovered, although the circumstances surrounding their deaths were not immediately clear. This marks the first time in ten years that an APD officer has been shot and killed in the line of duty, highlighting the severity of the situation. The Austin community has been deeply affected by this tragic event, with Mayor Kirk Watson expressing his condolences and emphasizing the city’s grief. Governor Greg Abbott also issued a statement acknowledging the risks faced by law enforcement officers and extending prayers to the families and colleagues of the fallen officers.
Following the incident, the Austin Police Department will initiate two concurrent investigations: a criminal investigation conducted by the Special Investigations Unit in collaboration with the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, and an administrative investigation carried out by APD’s Internal Affairs Unit, overseen by the Office of Police Oversight. The incident was captured on body-worn cameras, although the identities of the officers involved in discharging their weapons have not been revealed at this time.
In the wake of this tragic loss, there has been an outpouring of support and mourning from various city council members and local agencies, recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of the officers. The Austin Police Retired Officers Association and other organizations have expressed their condolences and solidarity with the families and colleagues of the fallen and injured officers.
This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the profound impact such incidents have on the communities they serve. The Austin community is united in mourning the loss of a brave officer and stands in support of all those affected by this tragedy..