NORTH AUSTIN, TEXAS — August 11, 2025 — A routine Monday afternoon turned into a nightmare for North Austin residents when gunfire erupted in the parking lot of the Target store at 8601 Research Boulevard, near Ohlen Road. The attack left three people dead and sent shockwaves through the community, prompting urgent calls for answers and sparking renewed conversations about public safety and mental health.
The Shooting Unfolds in Broad Daylight
According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 2:15 p.m. after multiple 911 calls reported an active shooter in the parking lot.
Upon arrival, police discovered three gunshot victims. Two were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third—critically wounded—was rushed to a nearby hospital but died shortly after. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers and employees scrambled for safety. Several nearby businesses, including restaurants and small retail outlets, went into lockdown as police secured the area.
Suspect Apprehended After Chaotic Pursuit
Police identified the suspect as a 32-year-old white male with a documented history of mental illness. Authorities say that after the shooting, the man stole a vehicle from one of the victims and fled the scene.
During his escape, he crashed the stolen vehicle before carjacking another at a nearby dealership. A police pursuit ensued, culminating in South Austin, where officers used a Taser to subdue the suspect before taking him into custody without further gunfire.
Chief Davis confirmed that the suspect is being questioned, but no formal charges had been announced as of late Monday night.
Investigation and Possible Motives
The Austin Police Department’s Homicide Unit and Crime Scene specialists are working to piece together the sequence of events. While officials have confirmed the suspect’s history of mental illness, they have not established a clear motive for the shooting.
“We are looking at all possibilities,” Chief Davis said during a press briefing. “Right now, our priority is to gather every piece of evidence, speak with witnesses, and provide answers to the families and community.”
Community Leaders Condemn Violence
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson condemned the shooting in a public statement, calling it “sickening, cowardly gun violence” and pledging city resources to support victims’ families.
“Our hearts are with those grieving tonight,” Watson said. “This tragedy is a painful reminder that we must remain committed to addressing both community safety and mental health care.”
Heightened Security and Business Disruptions
The shooting triggered a ripple effect across the surrounding area. Several businesses in the busy North Austin shopping district locked their doors as a precaution.
First responders also treated a fourth individual for unrelated injuries at the scene, though that person was not directly connected to the shooting.
Residents in nearby neighborhoods reported hearing sirens and helicopter activity for hours after the incident, as police cordoned off roads and set up crime scene barriers.
A City Still Reeling
For many North Austin residents, the shooting is yet another reminder of the vulnerability of public spaces. The Target store, known for steady foot traffic and family shopping, had never previously been linked to major acts of violence.
“This is where we shop with our kids, where we feel safe,” said one local shopper who was leaving the store moments before the gunfire began. “Now, that sense of safety feels shattered.”
As the investigation continues, grief counselors and victim assistance teams are being made available to those affected. Authorities have urged anyone with information, photos, or video footage from the scene to contact Austin Police at (512) 974-TIPS.
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