Austin, January 21, 2026
A shooting outside a Target store in North Austin has resulted in the deaths of three individuals. The suspect, who has a history of mental illness, was arrested after hijacking two vehicles following the incident. While authorities have not released the identities of the victims, this tragic event has raised concerns regarding public safety and mental health support in the city. Local officials are urging community vigilance as investigations continue.
Austin, Texas: Shooting Outside Target Store Results in Three Fatalities; Suspect Arrested
Austin, Texas – A tragic shooting occurred on Monday, January 19, 2026, outside a Target store in North Austin, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The suspect, a man in his early 30s with a history of mental illness, was apprehended after fleeing the scene and hijacking two vehicles.
Incident Details
At approximately 2:15 p.m., Austin police responded to reports of a shooting at the Target located at 8601 Research Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered three victims in the parking lot. Two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third was transported to a hospital, where they later died. Another person sustained unrelated injuries and was treated on-site. The suspect fled in a stolen vehicle, crashed it, then hijacked another car from a dealership. He was eventually located and taken into custody in south Austin. Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity or further details about the victims.
Background Information
This incident marks the first significant shooting in Austin in 2026. The city has experienced a decline in violent crimes over the past year, with a 15% decrease in homicides compared to 2024. However, this event has raised concerns about public safety and the need for enhanced mental health support services. Local officials have expressed condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.
Weather Update
As of Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the weather in Austin is cloudy with a temperature of 57°F (14°C). A passing shower or two is expected throughout the day, with a high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 53°F (12°C). Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution during inclement weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the shooting outside the Target store in Austin?
On January 19, 2026, a shooting occurred outside a Target store in North Austin, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The suspect, a man in his early 30s with a history of mental illness, was apprehended after fleeing the scene and hijacking two vehicles.
What is known about the victims of the shooting?
Authorities have not released the identities of the victims. Two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and a third died after being transported to a hospital. Another person sustained unrelated injuries and was treated on-site.
What is the current weather in Austin?
As of January 21, 2026, the weather in Austin is cloudy with a temperature of 57°F (14°C). A passing shower or two is expected throughout the day, with a high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 53°F (12°C).
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Target store, 8601 Research Boulevard, North Austin |
| Date and Time | January 19, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m. |
| Victims | Three individuals; two pronounced dead at the scene, one at the hospital |
| Suspect | Male in his early 30s with a history of mental illness; apprehended after fleeing and hijacking two vehicles |
| Weather at Time of Incident | Cloudy with a temperature of 57°F (14°C) |
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