Three suspects are now in custody following a series of 12 shootings reported across Austin, Texas, this week, incidents that left four people injured and prompted a large-scale multi-agency police response. Authorities confirmed that the final suspect was arrested after briefly fleeing during a traffic stop operation involving local law enforcement units.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis identified two of the suspects as teenagers aged 15 and 17. According to officials, the older teen was already wanted in connection with the theft of a firearm from the same store where the younger suspect had previously stolen a weapon, raising concerns about repeated access to illegally obtained guns.

Investigators said both firearms used in the shootings were stolen, highlighting what police described as a pattern of youth involvement in gun-related offences. Authorities have not yet released additional details on the identities of the suspects due to their age, but confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and involves multiple coordinated agencies.

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The third suspect was initially able to escape custody after the vehicle they were travelling in was stopped by officers from Manor Police and deputies from the Travis County Sheriff’s Office. However, law enforcement officials later confirmed that the individual was taken into custody hours later by Manor Police Department following an extensive search operation.

Reacting to the arrests, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a strong statement on social media, calling the accused “serial criminals with a callous disregard for life.” He also credited local law enforcement agencies, including the Austin Police Department, for their coordinated response in tracking and apprehending the suspects involved in the shooting spree.

Abbott further urged judicial authorities to ensure strict action, stating that if released, the accused could pose a continued threat to public safety. Law enforcement officials have echoed concerns over firearm thefts and juvenile involvement in violent incidents, while investigations continue into the sequence of shootings and possible connections between the cases.

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