Austin Police Identify Suspect In Target Parking Lot Shooting That Killed Three
Austin police have identified Ethan Nieneker, 32, as the man accused of fatally shooting three people in a Target parking lot located at 8601 Research Blvd., near Ohlen Road in North Austin on Monday afternoon.
The tragic event unfolded around 2:15 p.m., when emergency dispatchers received reports of a shooting at the popular retail store. According to Austin Police Department (APD) Chief Lisa Davis, officers responded promptly to the scene and found multiple victims.
Two of the individuals died at the scene, while a third victim was transported to a hospital where they later succumbed to their injuries. A fourth person was treated on site for unrelated injuries, and thankfully survived.
Chief Davis revealed that Nieneker, the suspect, has a documented history of mental health issues. After the initial shooting, Nieneker fled the scene driving a stolen vehicle.
His escape was short-lived; he crashed that vehicle and proceeded to steal another before finally being apprehended by police in South Austin, specifically in the 2400 block of La Casa Drive. Officers used a Taser to subdue and arrest him without further incident.
The shooting prompted an immediate lockdown of the Target parking lot, preventing shoppers from retrieving their vehicles throughout the afternoon. Police later announced that vehicle retrieval would be allowed starting at 10 p.m., once the crime scene was secured and investigations had advanced.
Target Corporation issued a heartfelt statement following the tragedy, expressing devastation over the violence at their Austin store. The company extended condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and offered support to their local team affected by the incident.
Target also committed to working closely with law enforcement as the investigation continues and pledged to provide grief counseling and other support resources to employees in the coming days.
Austin-Travis County EMS Chief Robert Luckritz commended the swift actions of first responders, which helped prevent further harm. The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about safety and mental health resources.
As investigations proceed, authorities are focusing on the motive behind the shooting and reviewing Nieneker’s background, particularly his mental health history. The community continues to mourn the loss of three lives taken far too soon in what was meant to be a routine shopping trip.
Law enforcement agencies and Target officials urge anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, counseling services and community support efforts are being mobilized to help those affected process the trauma of this tragic event.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the critical need for awareness and resources around mental health and public safety, as Austin collectively seeks answers and healing in the aftermath of the violence.
