Authorities in Austin, Texas, say three people were killed Monday afternoon after a shooting in the parking lot of a Target store in the city’s north side. The incident occurred shortly before 2:15 p.m. at the retailer’s location on Research Boulevard, during what police described as a busy back-to-school shopping period.
According to the Austin Police Department, two victims died at the scene, while a third succumbed to injuries after being transported to a hospital. A fourth person sustained non–gunshot-related injuries and received medical attention.
The suspect, identified only as a 32-year-old white male, fled the scene in a vehicle believed to belong to one of the victims. He later crashed the car and attempted to steal another from a nearby dealership before being apprehended in South Austin. Officers used a Taser to subdue him during the arrest. Authorities noted the suspect has a history of mental health issues, though the motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis called the attack “a very sad day for our community,” extending condolences to the victims’ families. Mayor Kirk Watson condemned the incident as “a sickening, cowardly act of gun violence” and vowed continued efforts to address public safety.
Target Corporation issued a statement expressing devastation over the loss of life, pledging to support affected employees and families with grief counseling and other resources.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine whether the shooting was targeted or random.
